Commander's Check-In Report

February 5, 2008

John Thaler


Crew Physical Status:
Intact, both mentally and physically. Tonight we will ensure a crew
social event will take place and take a break.


Time Departed/Returned from EVA:
EVA 03:
Time Departed: 10:35 am
Time Returned: 12:11pm

EVA 04:
Time Departed: 16:34pm
Time Returned: 18:05pm


Brief Narrative of Field Mission Results:
EVA 03:
Objective was to complete preliminary testing of methods for geology
data collection. Today's EVAs showed promising test data results and
also highlighted methods that can be improved such as auger use and
sealing of the sample pipe from the atmosphere. Further method testing
will take place tomorrow, and data collection will commence in the days
following.

EVA04: Objective was to familiarize crew members on ATV use while in
simulation and to familiarize with GPS use.


EVA Data/Interpretations:
N/A


Hab Maintenance:
- relocated the generator to Engineering
- changed the oil in the generator, and refueled it
- installed new plug onto cable, connected it to main power cable in
engineering and generator; generator operational and battery banks with
inverter functioning well (improved function)
- pumped water from main water supply in engineering, powered water
pump by the generator (line clear of ice)
- pumped grey water to GreenHab trickle tanks
- cleaned trickle tank sprinklers and pump filters (improved
performance)
- filled downstream water cascade tanks, restoring water levels
- started UV and trickle filter
- re-potted plants
- investigated internet connection problems to resolve connectivity and
speed issues (not resolved)
- investigated propane hot water tank (not resolved)
- fixed suit 1 backpack
- replaced suit 3 helmet radio connection
- fixed large tear in suit 4
- refueled ATVs and checked oil


Report Transmission Schedule:
Reports already submitted:
Special Science Report (Arthur Guest)
Special Science Report (Cheryl Wartman)

Reports to be submitted by 19:15:
Engineering Report

Reports to be submitted by 21:00:
Commander Report
Special Science Report (Kerry Cupit)
Journalist Report
EVA 03 Report
EVA 04 Report


Plans for Tomorrow:
An engineering EVA will be completed to survey a route to bury a cable
to radio ridge for future internet use.

A second EVA will be completed to test geology data collection methods
before sample collection commences.

Tomorrow the crew will be trained on Field Data Management Protocols.


Inventory:
Food supplies are full. Water supplies sufficient. Gasoline
sufficient. Propane good. Chocolate excellent.


Support Requested:
We need to review engineering's responses before requesting support.
We will send any requests in a direct email.


Miscellaneous:
Request instructions for astronomy certification. Currently have "Musk
Mars Desert Observatory Manual, Peter Betterline Crew 10, August 2003"