EVA-04:

Time: 10:30-12:30
Crew Members: Ryan, Simon, and Kim with Matt, James, and Pixel out of sim on polar bear watch
Site Location: Radio Ridge - Gypsum Field, UTM NAD27 12S 0517554 4251030
Transit Mode: Pedestrian

Objectives: Sampling gypsum fields, deploy HOBO and other field sensors, work on bear strategies and emergency protocol

Lessons Learned: Polar bear training gave insight to PLSS (portable life support system = backpack) doffing methods in an emergency and tactical positioning, which helps to maximize viewing of surrounding terrain in case of a secondary polar bear. Group coordination is important for making sure that the group works together to safely and quickly remove the PLSS and help each other if necessary. It is important to make sure that the GPS units are grabbed after taking the PLSS off in case the equipment is being left behind in the field. Also if possible, take a waypoint to that particular spot for retrieval. A sampling lesson learnt was that the rock hammer or scale in the science photos should be orientated North for reference, or otherwise noted in a voice recording. We tested using the weather station and sensors and we did not have any issues.