Objectives:

As the first geology EVA, the main objectives were to intimately familiarize myself with the geology in the area, to develop an efficient and diagnostic way of collecting data and attempt to locate and identify the minerals of interest for my project.

Operations and Data Collected:

Four geological stops were made at outcrops of interest:

1 - UTM 12 S 0518540 4250669
Sandstone intermixed with pebbles displaying some small-scale cross-stratification interpreted to be fluvial deposits. Feature of interest was a deep green column of coarse-grained sandstone among the white to beige sandstone. This was likely infill from an overlying layer.

2 - UTM 12 S 0518683 4250610
Fine- to medium-grained sandstone overlain by a coarse-grained sandstone forming 0.5 meter high mushroom-like structures caused by differential weathering.

3 - UTM 12 S 0518683 4250587
Coarse crystalline mineral not yet identified, observed in poorly exposed outcrop. This mineral may have been precipitated between the two sandstone beds within which it was observed. To identify the mineral, a sample was taken (MDRS01) to later identify back in the lab. Once at the lab, the HCl tested negative and the mineral did not taste salty.

4 - UTM 12 S 0518850 4250543
Intermixed fine-grained sandstone and coarse pebble sandstone overlain by a dark green sandstone, interpreted to be fluvial deposits. Sample MDRS02 taken to better identify the origin of the dark green colour of the sandstone.

Discussion:

The suits became problematic when trying to identify which tool I was attempting to remove from my pouch/pocket, the lower field of view of the helmet is limited and becomes increasingly fogged up. To preserve the GPS unit I took the readings without removing it through a ziplock bag. Sampling was simple enough though I believe had I taken more samples, transporting them could present a problem. This I plan on solving by increasing the personnel on specific sampling EVAs in the future.

No evaporite samples were identified though many deposits demonstrated potential. One mineral remains to be identified. Microscope work will be completed within the week.