Sim is coming. We can feel it. Every breath of fresh air lasts just a
little longer, and each un-adulterated sight is taken in just a tad
more deeply. Nonetheless, it’s coming. As such, Crew 69 is spending as
much time as is humanly possible doing un-sim-like activities. Somehow,
“30-minute walks” turn into two hour hikes to the tops of plateaus.
Picking up last minute engineering supplies may just include a detour
to, oh I don’t know, get milkshakes. And a ride in the truck bed of the
Black Lander. Last minute training on the ATVs/”unpressurized
transports” might just include getting into third or fourth gear.
Details, details…. It’s contagious. The important thing is that we are
preparing ourselves for sim on Thursday, and enjoying every second.

While the countdown to sim is decreasing, our experience and knowledge
is continuously increasing. Each member of Crew 69 is gaining
confidence in their abilities and environment. For instance, three
members of the crew had never been on an ATV before this afternoon
(side note, it’s amazing how one’s personality really comes out when
trying this activity for the first time). Whether their initial
reaction was cautious or, uh …daring (Tulika), by the end everyone was
riding like champs. By far, the most enjoyable person to watch this
change occur in was Andrea. Initially timid to squeeze that gas lever,
the fluid courage she gained with each squeeze was as tangible and
great as the mountains around us. You could tell it was one of those
experiences she would remember forever. And that was this place is all
about – creating experiences that will last a lifetime while conducting
research that will one day change our world… and Mars. This Crew is
becoming a team.

Crew 69 out!