Category: Journalist Report

Crew 261 Journalist Report 03-05-2023

Author: Kris Davidson, Crew Journalist

A strong wind arose during the afternoon of Sol 3, battering the hab for several hours. The fierce gusts elicited contrasting emotions; a sense of comfort as the crew found solace in their secure shelter, while concern lingered with each shake and rattle. The inhospitable conditions outside served as a stark reminder that critical structures can be damaged or compromised under the formidable Martian elements.

Winds have long defined Mars and remain an important area of study. Earlier in the day, prior to the intensification of the wind, the crew united to support Erin Kennedy, the Crew Robotics Engineer, as she embarked on her first on-site test of Atmosphinder. This innovative wind-powered rover is being designed to probe the geomorphic processes in the south polar region of Mars, an area known for its seasonal eruptions that contribute significantly to the planet’s atmospheric system. During EVA 4, Executive Officer Aline Decadi took the lead, offering valuable support as Kennedy worked with the robot, while Crew Commander James Burk supervised the team’s endeavors from the hab. Kennedy tested the robot using a half-sized design (~1 m diameter) in front of the hab. The objectives of the test focused on structural aspects of the robot and de-risking operational elements.

Cécile Renaud (Greenhab Officer + Crew Biologist) has been working steadily on two biology experiments, both with the overarching goal of understanding how future Martian settlers might successfully grow edible plants. The primary purpose of EVA 3, led by Crew Commander James Burk, was for Renaud to collect a variety of soil samples to use in a biostimulation project, in which spirulina (a stimulant) will be placed on tomato plants. Renaud and Julien Villa-Massone (Crew Engineer) have also successfully completed the setup of the photobioreactor device, intended to study the growth of spirulina in a Martian environment.

Transatlantic Mars 261 is comprised of safety-focused individuals, with a focus EVAs, among the most dangerous activity for an astronaut. Villa-Massone (Crew Engineer) installed a temporary monitor in the hab featuring a live EVA map feed, allowing HabComm to track the analogue astronauts in real time. Decadi (Executive Officer) polled the crew about the EVA spacesuits, compiling a list of areas of potential safety-focused improvement. Audrey Derobertmasure (HSO) has further improved the safety of EVAs by implementing a quick numerical (1 through 5) self-assessment of well-being, Each analog astronaut is queried at various points of an EVA by HabComm, a simple but valuable metric for recent hot Sols.

At 1700, the crew gathered in the lower hab for an enlightening demonstration of Mars VR by Commander Burk, who was joined in a virtual MDRS setting by project development partner Jeff Rayner of MXT Reality, based in Seattle, Washington. While still in the midst of a windstorm, the crew explored the virtual hab and surrounding landscape.

As the crew members of the Transatlantic Mars 261 mission press forward, they continue to confront the challenges and marvels that the Martian landscape has to offer. From the winds of Sol 3 to the intricacies of rover testing and the pursuit of sustainable plant growth, each day brings a wealth of learning experiences and opportunities for growth. With a focus on safety and a commitment to teamwork, the crew remains dedicated to advancing our understanding of Mars and its potential for future human habitation.

Crew 261 Journalist Report 01-05-2023

Author: Kris Davidson, Crew Journalist

For early settlers on Mars, there will be a surreal juxtaposition permeating every moment: the staggering responsibility and honor of being among the first humans on Mars, and the unyielding banality of critical daily chores. The extensive list of tasks that fill each Sol is a humbling reminder that even in this far-flung world, life will remain tethered to the mundane.

For Transatlantic Mars 261, these contrasting realities have begun to take hold. Before the EVA on Sol 2, Julien Villa-Massone (Crew Engineer) prepared and checked all the spacesuits — a repetitive task that on Mars could have life or death consequences. EVA 2 was led by James Burk (Commander) with Audrey Derobertmasure (HSO), Erin Kennedy (Crew Robotics Engineer), and Kris Davidson (Crew Journalist) to Marble Ritual for completion of crew training. Safe in the well-maintained spacesuits, the analog astronauts completed the training practice while enjoying an EVA filled with novelty and gentle wonder.

Back at the hab, the crew went about their projects, experiments, and chores. In the morning, and following the EVA, Derobertmasure (HSO) captured biometrics for the cardiovascular aging study. Cécile Renaud (Greenhab Officer) continued work on the biological preparation of spirulina for the photobioreactor experiment, alongside Julien Villa-Massone (Crew Engineer) who attended to the mechanical and programming elements of the device. In the afternoon, Villa-Massone (Crew Engineer) added the EVA Map, a satellite tracking function to the crew website (https://www.transatlanticmarscrew261.com), for the dual purposes of increasing crew safety while also creating real-time location markers for points of interest. Kennedy (Crew Robotics Engineer) continued programming and assembly of the Atmosphinder wind rover for upcoming EVA testing. Aline Decadi (Executive Officer) worked in the solar observatory to image the sun for education and outreach purposes. Burk (Crew Commander) continued work with the file server and technical set up for the Mars VR mapping work to be completed on an upcoming EVA.

Dinner featured fresh cucumbers, harvested from the greenhab by Renaud (Greenhab Officer). This precious fruit served as an important reminder, relevant to both Earth and Mars: even in the most inhospitable environments, life finds a way to persevere, and the simplest of pleasures can hold profound significance.

Crew 261 Journalist Report 01-05-2023

Author: Kris Davidson, Crew Journalist

In the tapestry of human existence, two shimmering threads interweave, binding the fabric of our collective destiny: Toolmaking and storytelling, the twin engines that drive the progress of our species. We find ourselves at an extraordinary moment when the loom of technology whirls with unprecedented velocity, spinning forth marvels in multiple realms – artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and rockets powerful enough to propel us (and all that we need to thrive) to Mars.

Storytelling has long served as an essential catalyst in the alchemy of scientific discovery. It is the vessel that carries within it the fragile essence of our humanity, infusing the sterile precision of data with the warm pulse of our imperfect hearts. Every simulation carried out at the Mars Desert Research Station is a story, an important draft in the larger unfolding story of humans to Mars. One day, a human being will be the first to set foot on Mars. That person — perhaps a teenager today — will also be standing on the shoulders of countless scientists, engineers, and analogue astronauts who have made and rectified all manner of mistakes to ensure their success.

Every analogue astronaut carries some version of this story with them to Utah. On the eve of the beginning of Transatlantic Mars Crew 261’s sim, Commander James Burk gently warned of the many discomforts to be endured in the coming two weeks. He reminded the crew that the experiments and projects will almost certainly take longer than expected, and that perfection should not be the goal (the subtext being that challenges and setbacks are precisely what we need to work through as a unified team). The Transatlantic Mars Crew 261’s arrival to the red planet was a liminal affair, a dreamed landing that occurred between a final dusk on Earth and the first Sol on Mars as the crew slept.

After the first breakfast on Mars, Executive Officer Aline Decadi led Audrey Derobertmasure (HSO), Julien Villa-Massone (Engineer), Cecile Renaud (Greenhab Officer), and Kris Davidson (Crew Journalist) on the first EVA to Marble Ritual for EVA training and testing communication systems. The EVA returned late, and Crew Commander James Burk called a debrief for the entire crew to review. It was determined that the novelty of being in spacesuits on EVA decreased anticipated efficiency. Throughout, Decadi prioritized safety for the crew. At the debrief, the crew also discussed hab etiquette for quiet hours, meal prep and clean up, as well as ways to ease stressful workloads for each other. The illusion of perfection was duly (and necessarily) shattered, but under the leadership of Burk and Decadi, the crew was empowered to voice concerns and strengthened as a unit.

The crew also expressed a desire to streamline communications with Mission Support and made the decision to invite Sergii Iakymov to join for dinner and conversation at 1800. A decision was also made to cancel the second EVA for the day.

The rest of the day was busy, with crew members beginning the setup of various experiments and projects. Derobertmasure (HSO) worked on collecting biometrics to assess cardiovascular aging from all crew members. Burk unpacked and qualified the file server that will be used for a multitude of technological applications in the coming days. Villa-Massone (Engineer) assessed facilities as required and worked with Renaud (Greenhab Officer) to set up the photobioreactor in the science dome. Erin Kennedy (Crew Roboticist) worked steadily on assembling and programming robotic elements of Atmosphinder, a wind-powered rover to be tested on upcoming EVAs. Decadi (Executive Officer) assessed observatories ahead of her planned celestial imaging for education and outreach purposes.

As Sol 1 for Crew 261 comes to a close, we are tired but more connected as a crew. And, we are all grateful and proud to be a part of the larger humans-to-Mars story.

Crew 280 Journalist Report 28-04-2023

Author: Núria Jar, Crew Journalist

As the final countdown began, mixed feelings filled the crew on their last hours on Mars. Hypatia I is returning to Earth after spending 12 SOLs on Mars. Despite the fact that a Martian day lasts 39 minutes longer than an Earth day, time seemed to have flown by at the Mars Research Desert Station (MDRS).

At around 4PM, the crew saw the first human in days. Sergii Iakymov, assistant director at the MDRS, had been supporting the crew as Mission Control throughout their Martian journey.

On the one hand, the crew members are excited to return to their families and loved ones, to feel the Earth’s gravity, and to enjoy a hot shower. On the other hand, they feel a sense of nostalgia as they say goodbye to the Red Planet that has been their home. It is bittersweet to leave behind the place where they have conducted experiments, made discoveries, and shared unforgettable experiences.

After their mission on Mars, the Hypatia I crew members prepared the station for the arrival of the next crew, who were scheduled to arrive the following day. They cleaned up the station for the incoming ones to continue. They also conducted a thorough check of all systems and equipment to ensure everything was in good working order for the next team.

Before leaving the MDRS, the crew members took a moment to reflect on their mission and the memories they made during their time on Mars. Two golden laurel branches, as if they were astronaut wings, adorn their shoulders after completing the mission.

It’s an emotional moment for the crew as they are as excited to return home but also sad to leave the Red Planet and end their mission. This experience was a turning point for all of them that they will cherish as they look up to the skies.

Crew 280 Journalist Report 27-04-2023

Author: Núria Jar, Crew Journalist

Journalist report – SOL 11
Hypatia I – Crew 280
Núria Jar, Crew Journalist

Today is a special day on Mars. The Crew Commander of Hypatia I, Mariona Badenas-Agustí, is celebrating her birthday. Curiously, she is the youngest member of the crew, although she is leading a female-led mission to the Mars Research Desert Station (MDRS). She is an inspiration for the next generation of space explorers, especially for young girls who are interested in pursuing STEM-related careers.

Hypatia I is preparing a special dinner for tonight. Pasta with pesto is a tasty pleasure from Earth that will satisfy all the crew members. They will also bake a homemade cake to celebrate that Mariona has completed another orbit around the Sun, but from Mars.

The crew members are enjoying the last hours at the base, as well as the last extravehicular activity (EVA), the last dinner, the last sprouts from the GreenHab, the last dehydrated food from the provisions, the last shower… They will miss their lives on Mars. It’s not easy to leave behind an experience that has been so life-changing and memorable.

Actually, they are wrapping up all their experiments to prepare for their return home, where they will share all their findings and results with the general public. In addition to their research, they have also gained personal learnings that they will take with them.

By the way, Hypatia I is making the most of their last few hours at the MDRS by engaging in some leisure activities. The Crew Scientist, Ariadna Farrés Basiana, in collaboration with the Crew Engineer, Cesca Cufí i Prat, designed a Martian navigation exercise that proved to be quite challenging and left the crew exhausted.

The Crew Commander, Mariona Badenas-Agustí, and the Crew Journalist, Núria Jar, drove to Roberts Rock Garden with the Perseverance rover. What made this moment even more special was that Badenas-Agustí and Jar first met at an interview at the Catalan public radio station, Catalunya Ràdio, to talk about Mars when the rover landed on the Martian surface.

Crew 280 Journalist Report 26-04-2023

Author: Núria Jar, Crew Journalist

The crew members of Hypatia I were relieved to enjoy a warmer day on Mars as the temperature climbed above 20 degrees Celsius, following some chilly days at the beginning of their mission.

On average, the temperature on Mars is -63ºC, but the difference between Martian day and night goes from 35ºC during the day and drops significantly at night to -80ºC. The extreme temperature variation can make exploration and survival on Mars challenging. However, Hypatia I crew is surviving efficiently.

The Crew Scientist of Hypatia I, Ariadna Farrés Basiana, demonstrated her resourcefulness by making a homemade sextant using only a few objects to determine the latitude at the Mars Research Desert Station (MDRS). She took a rule, a piece of cord, one rock and a homemade protractor. The crew is looking forward to testing it out during the night to see how accurate the homemade sextant is in determining their location, in relation to the Polar Star.

Mars has an inclination that is very similar to Earth’s. So, the method used by the Crew Scientist to determine the latitude at the MDRS using a homemade sextant should work on Mars just as it does on Earth.

The extravehicular activity (EVA) of the day took place along Cow Dung Road 0110, just before reaching the Martian moons around Outlook. The long distance between this destination and the MDRS made radio communications between the crew and the base challenging. To address this issue, the Crew Commander, Mariona Badenas-Agustí, pointed the radio antenna towards the south to improve communication with the base. Fortunately, it worked and the EVA was a nice experience in the MDRS surroundings.

During the EVA, the GreenHab Officer, Laia Ribas, took the opportunity to collect sand samples from various locations. She is using microBIOMETER, a device that allows her to test the soil microbes on site, to study the possibility of life on Mars. The GreenHab Officer is leading this experiment in collaboration with the school of their kids, so the next generation is getting involved in scientific exploration and discovery. She finally discovered the presence of life on the Red Planet.

Crew 280 Journalist Report 25-04-2023

Author: Núria Jar, Crew Journalist

The wind is a constant presence at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS). The sound of the canvas flapping against the corridors of the MDRS serves as a constant background melody for the crew living inside the Hab. Dust storms are common on Mars and they can last for weeks, sometimes even months, covering the surface of the Red Planet. Precisely, this is one of the most important meteorological phenomena of Mars.

Despite the high winds, two crew members from Hypatia I conducted an extravehicular activity (EVA) because it was deemed safe to do so. Whether staying inside the base or going out, preparing for an EVA is always a special moment for the crew members. They have to help each other in suiting up, checking the equipment and communication effectively before heading out. Playing music through the radios has quickly become a tradition while the crew members who are about to conduct an EVA are waiting in the airlock to depressurize. Five minutes can feel like an eternity in the cramped space of an airlock, sandwiched between two doors.

While the two crew members were outside conducting their EVA, the remaining crew stayed inside the base to continue their ongoing experiments. One such experiment is called the “Martian bottle”, which aims to recycle water as a means of promoting self-sustainability. Water is a scarce resource on Mars, and the crew is trying to generate drinkable water from the used water in the GreenHab using the bottle cap Light Pills, designed by Hypatia I crew member Helena Arias.

Throughout the day, there were delayed communications between Mars and Earth. This afternoon, the two back-up crew members of Hypatia I, Helena Arias and Anna Bach, were busy in Barcelona discussing the initial days of the mission at the MDRS. They shared their insights and impressions about the mission at a gathering event held at the Fabra Observatory. The event was a success and people in Catalonia are interested in learning more about the Hypatia I mission, but the delay between the two planets is challenging.

Meanwhile, the crew members shared their dreams for the future after their experience at the MDRS. The crew’s daily routine at the station is governed by the rhythm of Mars, yet their aspirations reach far beyond. Ad Astra, Per Aspera!

Crew 280 Journalist Report 24-04-2023

Author: Núria Jar, Crew Journalist

The crew of Hypatia I woke up with a smile as they were thinking about the breathtaking experience of last night. They were lucky to see the Northern Lights from the Musk Observatory on Mars. They seemed like clouds on the horizon because it had rained the evening before, but they quickly realized that they were admiring a wonder of nature in the sky. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event that they will surely remember for a long time.

The day began with a successful extravehicular activity (EVA) in the morning. The Hypatia I crew members are improving their communication skills on Mars and are becoming more proficient in executing outdoor activities. Progress and growth are taking place with a new orbit around Mars for the crew of Hypatia I.

The crew members at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) are working diligently to carry out their experiments as time seems to be passing by quickly. If any of the crew members check their Fitbits, they would notice how many kilometers they have walked while in confinement at the MDRS. With only four SOLs left, they are already planning their last steps of research. Otherwise, new projects are blooming each day. Here is one very interesting thing about tomatoes.

The Crew Scientist, Ariadna Farrés-Basiana, is collaborating with St. Peter’s School in Barcelona to conduct an interesting experiment involving tomato seeds. The experiment involves planting tomato seeds in two separate small containers, which are tagged differently. One set of seeds was previously aboard the International Space Station for five weeks, while the other set was not. The goal is to observe and compare how the seeds grow in each container and study the potential effects of space travel on the seeds.

The crew of Hypatia I is starting to miss the taste of fresh fruits and vegetables, but they are also becoming more adept at preparing meals with dehydrated food in the kitchen. Last night, they prepared a Spanish omelet using dehydrated potatoes and eggs, topped with cheddar cheese. Despite the ingredients being dehydrated, the omelet tasted like a snack from Earth and brought a feeling of nostalgia to the crew.

Crew 280 Journalist Report 23-04-2023

Author: Núria Jar, Crew Journalist

The crew members of Hypatia I were feeling homesick on April 23rd. This is a special day in Catalonia, also known as Sant Jordi’s day. It is a celebration of literature and love, where people exchange roses and books with their loved ones. Although they missed the festive atmosphere and the traditions of their home country, they found a way to celebrate this special day, probably the first ever Sant Jordi’s on Mars.

The Crew Scientist, Ariadna Farrés, taught their colleagues how to make origami roses to celebrate the day on Mars. She is a master of origami, while others tried to do their best. The crew members enjoyed the activity, relaxed themselves for a while, and felt a sense of connection to their home country and culture, even though they were miles away from Earth. They made a dragon bookmark and a decorative rose, both made of paper.

In relation to books, the Hypatia I crew members brought many about Mars and space exploration to the Mars Research Desert Station (MDRS). The Red Planet has inspired mythology, literature and scientific research for centuries, as these books show. The crew members have been enjoying reading and discussing these books during their free time.

One of these books was “Una ciutat a Mart” (“A city on Mars”), written by astrophysicist Guillem Anglada-Escudé and other scientists for the general public, particularly kids. In this recent book, they develop the idea of how a human settlement on Mars would be. The Greenhab Officer, Laia Ribas, was a contributor to the study SONet (The Sustainable Offworld Network), which inspired this book.

Another interesting book was “Mart. El mirall vermell” (“Mars. The red mirror”). It collects different articles from people related to an exhibition, which took place in Barcelona in 2021. The Crew Commander, Mariona Badenas-Agustí, wrote a chapter with her experience at the MDRS last 2019 with LATAM-III.

It was a creative and fun way to celebrate Sant Jordi’s day. Definitely a heartwarming Sunday moment at the station.

Crew 280 Journalist Report 22-04-2023

Author: Núria Jar, Crew Journalist

Saturday’s sun came without warning. Hypatia I crew members woke up lazily and they slowly sat around the table to have a coffee and weekend homemade pancakes. It was a peaceful and relaxing start for the Martian day SOL 6. Some were eager to continue with their experiments, while others were looking forward to exploring the outside. But all had one duty in mind: clean the station and its surroundings to maintain the habitability of Mars.

Three of the crew members conducted an extravehicular activity (EVA) around the MDRS to collect some bridles which were left on the ground. Hypatia I is very conscious about the importance of maintaining the integrity of the environment, especially to reduce the impact of human presence. The preservation of Mars and space is important for many reasons if we want to transform society into an interplanetary species.

Within the station, after a few hours of hard work, the Hab was looking pristine, ready for another week of experiments and exploration. The cleaning was reflected in the water consumption. From 11 liters per person on average, last day the consumption increased to 16 liters per person. Anyway, Hypatia I is proud of their water consumption during the first half of the simulation. They are learning to manage their daily routine with less water, which is crucial for long-duration space missions.

Another crucial routine for the crew is doing exercise in the morning. The Hab’s lower deck was transformed into a gym, where crew members can maintain their physical health. The back-up Crew Engineer, Helena Arias, developed personalized exercises tables for all crew members that can be done in a small space in a situation of confinement. Exercise is crucial for preventing muscle and bone loss, maintaining cardiovascular health, and improving overall well-being.

Finally, the crew flew a small drone around the base and took amazing pictures, such as one of the Crew Commander, Mariona Badenas-Agustí, from the window, where she said “Loud and clean.”