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Paleological Summary - August 3, 2005
Stacy Sklar Reporting
Tiziana and I conducted many EVAs in order to collect fossil samples and understand the environments that these fossils once lived in. We found fossilized Algae (layered, possible stromatilite but will analyze at home institutions and confirm with the RST), Corals (both single and chained colonies--known as Halysites), Sponages, Crinoids (Only stem sections were found), Actinostroma (mostly partial but one almost complete fossil), Nautiloids--(possible but needs further analysis), and Ammonites. Research into exopaleontology at FMARS is needed.
Due to time constraints, bad weather, and re-organization of science priorities regolith and landform objectives were met by Anthony Kendall the hydrologist. However, both the hydrologist and geologist agree that due to the meter change of regolith/landform only a small area map will be available and future crews should continue this important research not only for scientific analysis but for navigation as well (See Anthony's Quick Mud Reports). It is also suggested that an ARV could help with this research as well.
Research in impact-induced concretions was put on hold due to re-organization of science priorities. However, during one of the last EVA's a panoramic view of the northern area concluded that the search for impact induced concretions must be extended in both the northern and southern routes along with further image analysis. Therefore, a recommendation of an ARV to scout these areas prior to actual field deployment by the crew is suggested.
During the simulation, I also tested the concept of a tool belt attached with equipment that a geologist would use. The equipment used was a hammer, ruler, camera in case, and a small pouch that included voice recorder, GPS, batteries, paper and pen. In my previous simulations at MDRS, I had problems with equipment usage. I could not see anything past my chest and just the simply things such as writing on paper with thick gloves became difficult to nearly impossible. Therefore, during this rotation I used a voice recorder instead. This worked so well in fact that I recommend the use of voice recorders to all future crew members of both MDRS and FMARS. I also had problems with the positioning of equipment on the tool belt. For example, several times I lost my hammer. I tried different positions but nothing seemed to work. However, I was always able to retrieve my hammer because I was always checking to make sure it was still attached to my tool belt. I also learned early in the rotation to place my camera case in an upside position. This seems odd but it was easier to know where the location of the camera was. Another piece of equipment was a ruler attached by a string. The ruler broke in half after three EVA's. The ruler was used for scale but it became apparent that using the rock hammer was better for scale. Other problems that occurred were changing batteries on equipment and trying to use equipment simultaneously. For example, at one point I had to use the camera, GPS, and voice recorder. I could have used three hands! Further research is needed in this area to continue to conduct this type of operational research at all the Mars Society's Research Stations.
Overall my experience at FMARS was adventurous. I realize that Devon Island is the best analog for the type of simulations that are conducted at the Mars Society's Research Stations. By conducting these simulations we will know what it will take to for humans to work and live on Mars!
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