30 Sensors to Mars: Toward Distributed Support Systems for Astronauts in Space Habitats

Abstract

In October 2017, an international crew participated in an emulated Mars colonization mission. For two weeks, they stayed confined in a special complex, a so-called analog habitat, where they were isolated from the outside world, including a lack of natural lighting and exterior noises, and lived on particularly adjusted Martian time. The mission followed a strict schedule, involving actual scientific work and activities envisioned as necessary for survival and exploration of the red planet. The main objective was to study the behavior and group dynamics of the crew in conditions recreating colonization of Mars, albeit under some unique circumstances compared to previous similar experiments. What was also special about the mission was the use of sociometric methods utilizing custom pervasive sensing solutions that we had built and deployed to complement classic methods based on self-reports and interviews. Based on that experiment, in this paper we contribute twofold. First, we share our deployment experiences to highlight the potential of pervasive distributed sensing systems in sociometric studies of habitat-based missions. The examples presented to this end include quantitative results that we obtained, among others, on social interactions between the astronauts, the impact of atypical situations on the crew, and the ergonomics of the habitat. Second, drawing from the experiences, in cooperation with the astronauts we attempt to highlight some unique challenges that space habitats pose for distributed support systems, such as ours. Among others, the challenges pertain to system deployment, autonomy, resilience, and flexibility. We believe that these challenges and, in general, space colonization constitute exciting research opportunities for the distributed systems community.

Maciej Matraszek

PhD Student / Senior Data Scientist

My research interests include machine learning, low-power wireless and mental health.