This morning we continued the process of organization by defining various maintenance tasks in and around the Hab and setting up a schedule. Like all long term space habitations, daily maintenance and cleaning will take a significant amount of time. Tasks were divided up so that each was rotated among the crew.

We took the blue MDRS truck into Green River today to get new tires, a battery, an oil change, and air filter. Unfortunately we were unable to find the cause of the lack of tail lights, so the truck is still essentially day use only.

EVA equipment such as batteries, comm units, and suits were inspected and inventoried. Details can be found in the engineering report. Tomorrow we plan to begin EVA operations training, staying in the local area. Other activities included members setting up and testing research equipment for later deployment.

After spending that last couple of days catching up on neglected maintenance, it seems appropriate here to talk about human factors. Future Hab designs could benefit from taking into consideration that, just like real Martian habitats, they will have to be maintained by people with a mix of skills and attitudes. Being able to easily perform daily chores is essential in getting people to perform them. That, and a disciplined approach to living in a small space should, in the long term, allow more time for science. Neglecting cleanliness and maintenance may provide more time for science activities, but only on a short term basis.

Another ergonomic factor that could be improved in future Habs is the height of work surfaces for computers. The main area for using computers on the upper floor is too high, forcing people to assume uncomfortable postures. Any long sessions at the computers becomes, at best, an ordeal.