307-CommanderReport

Commander's Report

03/07/13

Volker Maiwald

We started today with a nice breakfast which was accompanied by an experiment regarding low-bandwith instant communication - very successfully. Hardly using up any bandwith, we were talking back with Earth for half an hour, having small talk and telling them something about our life.

After that we began our EVA, which was the first time that all of us went on an EVA together - which was a group thing we wanted to do since our mission is about to end soon.

So we walked up the hills behind the habitat in western direction, beginning to sample ash deposits, which was another of my "junior geologist"-actions (a title that has been layed upon me by no other than our Commander herself!) these days. I am learning more and more and at times even understand our two busy-bee geologists when they are talking about their work.

Once finished we were heading further west to a cliff, in the hopes of sampling more ash - searching for life in fact. However, this was one of my lesser deeds as junior-geologists. What I had anticipated as ash was in fact no ash and therefore we did not take any samples.

In any case, enjoying the bright sunlight and scenery we made our way back for lunch. This was short and effective, i.e. everyone got full.

After lunch we were busy with some data evaluation, lab work and maintenance before we once more headed out outside the hab and near the observatory in teams to take some memorial pictures - you don't get to go to Mars so often, so having some nice memories cannot hurt.

We got in around seven and began reporting, and preparing food. This will - if everything will happen according to plan - likely be my last entry in a commander report. I would like to use this opportunity to mention that this has been an outstanding experience for me with an incredible crew - you did not realize that we hardly knew each other. We have an incredible group dynamic, can rely on each other very well and produced a lot of good work. I learned a lot in terms of people, Mars and science. It is sad that time is running so fast and Crew 125 at MDRS is certainly an experience I would like to repeat. It has been a privilege to serve on this crew under this inspiring Commander. Despite all our different cultures and backgrounds, we really were and still are one crew.

I would also like to thank the women and men behind MDRS and its mission, Mission Support, the CapCom team, Engineering, the remote scientists, mission director, our many sponsors, my colleagues at home and everyone who is involved for their committment and inspiration. Thank you! And Thank you Crew 125! It has been an outstanding experience being here!

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CommanderCheckIn Report

03/07/2013

Melissa Battler

Crew Physical Health:

All are well.

Eva Depart Time:

10:10

Eva Return Time:

13:30