Surface extra-vehicular activity emergency scenario management: Tools, procedures, and geologically related implications

    Authors

    L. Zea; A. R. Diaz; C. K. Shepherd;R. Kumar

    Comments

    Authors: contact us about adding a copy of your work at STARS@ucf.edu

    Abbreviated Journal Title

    Acta Astronaut.

    Keywords

    Extra-vehicular activity; EVA; MDRS; Emergency; Stretcher; Life support; system; LSS; Astronaut; Engineering, Aerospace

    Abstract

    Extra-vehicular activities (EVAs) are an essential part of human space exploration, but involve inherently dangerous procedures which can put crew safety at risk during a space mission. To help mitigate this risk, astronauts' training programs spend substantial attention on preparing for surface EVA emergency scenarios. With the help of two Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) crews (61 and 65), wearing simulated spacesuits, the most important of these emergency scenarios were examined at three different types of locations that geologically and environmentally resemble lunar and Martian landscapes. These three platforms were analyzed geologically as well as topographically (utilizing a laser range finder with slope estimation capabilities and a slope determination software). Emergency scenarios were separated into four main groups: (1) suit issues, (2) general physiological, (3) attacks and (4) others. Specific tools and procedures were developed to address each scenario. The tools and processes were tested in the field under Mars-analog conditions with the suited subjects for feasibility and speed of execution. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

    Journal Title

    Acta Astronautica

    Volume

    67

    Issue/Number

    1-2

    Publication Date

    1-1-2010

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    60

    Last Page

    70

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000277685800007

    ISSN

    0094-5765

    Share

    COinS