Training a crew for human exploration by using Mars analogue research stations

Paper number

IAC-06-E1.5.04

Author

Mr. Ryan Kobrick, University of Colorado at Boulder, United States

Coauthor

Ms. Melissa Battler, University of New Brunswick, Canada

Coauthor

Mr. Nicholas Wilkinson, Mars Institute, Canada

Coauthor

Mr. Rocky Persaud, Canada

Year

2006

Abstract

The authors’ combined and collaborated experiences in planning and executing operations for simulated training missions at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) in Utah have lead to a unique approach for the entire training mission lifecycle. The training program addresses human exploration surface operations from pre-crew selection, through mission operations, to post mission crew activities such as outreach. The Mars Society Canada (MSC) has been involved with two extended science missions, and run/operated/executed two full training missions at MDRS that have increased in quality with experience. The MSC and associated field instructors have fostered a learning environment for the participants on how to perform all aspects of a mission and also to pass the torch to the next set of educators to continue operations for future missions. The rotations require considerable planning and coordination of personnel to ensure a successful mission, so selecting the best crew is essential to ensure the longevity of the entire program.

	This paper will describe the past experience of the authors and MSC operations at MDRS, which has the future goal of training and guiding the next generation of extended expedition participants. The outline for this paper follows the flow of mission phases of mission planning, crew selection, integrating a research program based on the selected crew’s experience (such as geology and biology research for MDRS missions that can be used to simulate Mars exploration, and physiology and psychology studies that can be used in the crew selection screening process), pre-mission communications and task assignments, mission operations and cross training, and post mission activities.

The unique teaching techniques used during the mission will be addressed and the contributions made by crewmembers to enhance the training program will be used to model further improvements of the MSC undertaking. The phases will also include how interdisciplinary cross training was planned and carried out by the instructors and participants through activities such as lectures, laboratory sessions, and field sessions.

Abstract document

IAC-06-E1.5.04.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-E1.5.04.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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