My research continues to focus on the total cell count of Chlorella vulgaris throughout a two week testing period dealing with typical overcast light intensities of Mars and Earth. Throughout the next two weeks, I will constantly check the algae for viability and add nutrients as needed keeping all four petri dishes constant.

I have faced many challenges throughout the research process so far. Initially my calculations stated that using a parallel light intensity theorem that I would be able to simulate Earth's highest intensity at noon, which would reach 100,000 lux. To do this, I had to solder led strips together to ensure I would have the right calculations. However, when I tested my strips with appopriate tools, I realized that my calculations weren't matching up with the pre trial data. I instead decided to focus on studying what a typical day with overcast would look like in both simulated environments as overcast was more common and realistic and would align with my pre-trial data. My calculations are attached below:

Another challenge I've dealt with is the uncertainty of the viability of my algae cultures. Despite thoroughly sterilizing all the glassware and lab equipment I used for the sterilization process, the possibility of spores not diminishing and taking over my algae cultures still exists. Since I do not have access to typical Biotech materials such as an autoclave machine, I cannot ensure that my algae cultures won't die off, which poses a significant roadblock.

Overall, my research project has taught me a lot about the Mt. Everest analogy we learned about at the beginning of the year. Multiple times throughout the year, I felt as if I was making significant process and getting past peaks or roadblocks. However, when another challenge came up, I felt myself returning back to the starting point and having to figure out a new method or technique to get to the destination. I now understand that I need to have patience as a researcher because things don't usually go the way you want them to, and that you must always have faith in yourself to find another solution.