Potential capabilities and uses of an integrated data logging device during a human Mars exploration mission

During the 2003 field season at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) in the Utah desert, a functional prototype for an integrated data logging device (referred to in this paper as a "Datalogger") for assisting science data collection during planetary exploration extra-vehicular activities (EVAs) was tested by crewmembers of Expedition One (Feb. 15 - Mar. 16). The Datalogger prototype consisted of software running on a laptop PC and a 20 x 4 character LCD display with 16-key alphanumeric keypad. Two configurations of the display/keyboard interface were tested: a handheld version and a chestplate-mounted version. The software functionality of the Datalogger prototype consisted of GPS coordinate recording, audio comment recording, and EVA organization capability. The Datalogger prototype was tested during six simulated Mars exploration EVAs by biologists and geologists. Users completed questionnaires following the EVAs. Based on the experiences of the Datalogger users, insights into possible uses and desired characteristics of an integrated data logging device for geological and biological field science research during future human Mars exploration EVAs are presented. Finally, the role of telematics and geomatics in shaping future planetary exploration is briefly discussed.