The experiments

Impact of Martian dust on infrastructure durability - Antoine's experiment

Following the experiment conducted by Maxime Foucart last year, my study will focus on assessing the hazards posed by Martian dust to infrastructure, particularly a Martian base. The aim is to characterize the particle size distribution of dust transported close to the ground, by measuring its distribution every 10 cm up to a height of 30 cm. 

Coarse particles, which are more abrasive than finer ones, represent a significant threat to the integrity of materials during long-term missions. This experiment aims to determine the height at which structures should be reinforced in order to mitigate the abrasive effects of aeolian dust transport.

Investigating arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in a Martian-simulated environment - Bérengère's experiment

The experiments conducted at the Mars Desert Research Station aimed to study the germination, viability and symbiotic efficiency of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) spores under simulated Mars conditions. The research investigated how AMF response to environmental stresses: extreme temperatures, UV radiation, poor-nutrient soil (regolith) and gravity.

The research was divided into two main experiments: an in vitro analysis of spore germination and viability and an in vivo evaluation of symbiotic efficiency.

The first experiment consisted of testing the germination of AMF spores in Petri plates after exposure to simulated Martian stresses. A MTT test was also performed to assess spore viability following these stresses.

The symbiotic efficiency of AMF spores with a host plant was evaluated in a second experiment. After exposure to the various conditions, spores were associated with roots of a host plant. Following a 10-day period, the host plant’s root system was stained and analyzed microscopically to confirm the formation of a symbiotic association.

Additionally, soil samples were collected from the Mars Desert Research Station to examine the presence of AMF and their stress tolerance.

 HIIT vs Endurance Training: Which Exercise Modality Best Supports Astronaut Concentration During Long-Duration Missions? - Beatrice's and Arnaud's experiment

We aimed of identifying which type of physical exercise may provide greater benefits to astronauts during long-duration missions, such as future expeditions to Mars. In this study, we sought to compare the effects of two exercise modalities performed on a cycle ergometer—high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and low-intensity steady-state endurance training (EF)—on attentional processes. Maintaining optimal concentration and cognitive performance in such environments is critical for mission success and crew safety.

Each experimental day began with the collection of baseline data. Participants’ sleep parameters and blood glucose levels were recorded in the morning to provide contextual and physiological indicators prior to exercise. Following this, they completed the training protocol assigned for that cycle (three consecutive days of either HIIT or EF). During each exercise session, heart rate (HR) was continuously monitored, and participants were asked to report their perceived exertion.

At the end of each three-day cycle, we assessed attentional performance using the Stroop test, which measures the ability to concentrate and process visual information under conditions of cognitive interference. At the same time, a galvanometer was used to record electrodermal responses, providing an objective measure of autonomic nervous system activity and, more specifically, stress levels during the task.

In addition, standardized questionnaires on sleep quality and baseline stress were administered to control for potential confounding variables.

Taken together, this protocol was designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of how different exercise modalities influence attentional processes.

Crisis Resource Management on Mars - Odile's experiment

As the Health and Safety Officer of the Syrtis Crew, I explored the application of Crisis Resource Management (CRM) principles during simulated medical emergencies in a Mars analog environment. This study involved six simulations of cardiac arrest, designed to reflect the operational and psychological constraints of long-duration space missions. The eight-member crew, all trained in Basic Life Support (BLS) prior to deployment, responded to varied cardiac arrest scenarios reflecting different underlying causes.

The protocol included two initial training simulations, followed by two “Earth” scenarios—with assumed remote support—and two “Mars” scenarios simulating full autonomy, conducted without prior warning to preserve realism and cognitive stress. Team performance was assessed using the Ottawa Global Rating Scale (Ottawa GRS), a validated CRM evaluation tool measuring leadership, communication, situational awareness, problem-solving, and resource management. Objective data, including time to recognition, initiation of chest compressions, and delivery of the first shock with a training automated external defibrillator (AED), were systematically collected.

Following each simulation, structured debriefings provided qualitative insight into perceived team efficiency, stress management, and confidence. By combining behavioral assessment with objective performance metrics, this study offers a structured framework to analyze non-technical skills in extreme environments.

These findings aim to support the integration of CRM-based simulation training in both space medicine preparation and terrestrial critical care contexts, where high-performance teamwork under pressure is essential for patient outcomes.