Morning started with a lot of physiological tests, EDA, ECG – it’s like we’ve gotten all we could have out of these FitBits! All of this to establish a baseline for the arousal monitoring that was coupled with the tests of different VR environments for well-being. So the start of the day was quite relaxing, to keep our strength for what was to come.
On the first EVA prep meeting we’ve planned the actions necessary to have our two astronauts stay overnight in the SWAMP shelter on the surface of the Moon. It seemed so far away at that time, but finally, on our third EVA we brought the materials and tools necessary to install an airlock and despite multiple failures of the prototype BORP suit, we’ve managed to complete the install. The HabCom had eyes on us through the LEO rover throughout the operation, and we even managed to install a functioning dust sensor out in the surface, to know what ventilation and filter systems we ought to make for the other suits.
After the primary tasks were completed we took out the TIGER rover for its first ride. Despite it not being built for this surface it performed well and sent very good quality data back to HabCom. We tested Human-Robot Interaction and Collaboration by having it point at different Solar Panels and getting a reading from the EVA astronauts. Our two more prototype robots, from our PJAIT robotic workshop also joined it in the airlock so that we could assist their usability in these conditions. Afterwards our XO made her way back to the habitat, while the Med Officer and the Engineer stayed the night out, for what has become the longest EVA in the history of LunAres Habitat and Research Station.
