Mission goals
MDRS122: HI-SEAS
MDRS Crew 122 is a collection of astronaut-like scientists, engineers, educators, and artists, chosen to participate in HI-SEAS (Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation), a four-month simulated Mars mission to take place this April. The goal of HI-SEAS, as designed by Dr. Kim Binsted of the University of Hawaii and Dr. Jean Hunter of Cornell University, is to test new forms of food and new food preparation strategies for astronauts on long-term space missions. Therefore, much of our time at MDRS will be spent participating in the MDRS food study, also directed by Jean Hunter.
In addition to participating in the MDRS food study, we are testing other food study protocols for the HI-SEAS mission, as well as individual research projects. The following are summaries of each crew member’s activities and motivation while at MDRS.
Our commander, Angelo Vermeulen, plans to develop a tele-operated robotic farming system for HI-SEAS. In preparation, he is tending plants and systems in the MDRS GreenHab, harvesting plants for meals including collard greens and kale. He will compile a first plant maintenance manual for future crews.
Our XO and Crew Journalist, Kate Greene, plans to study the crew’s sleep patterns during HI-SEAS to determine if and how bright light stimulus in the morning affects nighttime sleep. At MDRS, she is testing protocols for the sleep monitoring systems and light-exposure location and scheduling. Also, while at MDRS, she is submitting journalistic observations of the simulated Mars experience.
Our Crew Biologist, Dr. Yajaira Sierra-Sastre, plans to perform a number of microbial studies during HI-SEAS. At MDRS, she is evaluating swab techniques and testing a portable ATP luminometer. Data from this equipment will be used to monitor hygiene inside the habitat. In addition, she is conducting end-of-shelf-life testing on various meals prepared by the crew assessing while at MDRS.
Our Crew Geologist and HSO, Dr. Oleg Abramov, plans to collect data and model the distribution of heat flow in the HI-SEAS habitat. At MDRS, he will test the effectiveness of temperature sensors and transmitters and of a thermal imager, and software to analyze the data. At MDRS, he will also lead EVA teams in geology excursions.
Our Crew Engineer, Simon Engler, plans to test a number of remote-controlled rovers during HI-SEAS. At MDRS, he is evaluating the HUSKY A200 Unmanned Ground Vehicle, used for tasks such as collecting and carrying equipment. Also, while at MDRS, he will lead EVA teams in robot rescue and recovery.
Our Crew Astronomer, Sian Proctor, will lead the outreach effort at HI-SEAS. While at MDRS, she is organizing and cataloging ingredients and recipes for the food study, documenting the cooking process, and taking photographs of crew activity. She will also lead stargazing sessions with the crew when temperature permits.
Overall, Crew 122 is excited for the chance to cook on “Mars,” get to know each other better, and explore the landscape while at MDRS.