Learning how to get the most science out of a Mars expedition will take practice said Michael Sims, a research scientist at the NASA Ames Center for Mars Exploration, in the computational sciences division.

Sims coordinated a "science backroom" at Ames; tasked to help support Devon Island crews via telecommunications link. The lengthy round-trip communications lag between Earth and Mars was mimicked. This simulation brought up a range of issues that must be considered in helping future Mars explorers choreograph field trips that are scientifically rewarding.

Apollo moonwalkers benefited by a cadre of science specialists that were just seconds away via electronic link back on Earth, Sims said.

"There is a real logistics issue about the management and transfer of information between Earth and the Mars crews," Sims said.

Sam Burbank, an independent filmmaker, and a mainstay of the Devon Island crew took part in simulated Mars walks. Carrying out tasks while garbed in a special suit, and having vision constricted by a helmet, added up to a daunting challenge, he said.

"Every single piece of gear you bring to Mars is going to break, maybe with the exception of a hammer," Burbank said.

There is no doubt that crew selection is a top priority. "I think it’s 10 times more important than anything else. I’d rather have a rotten space suit and somebody I enjoy doing a Mars walk with than a great space suit and being with somebody I don’t want to be around," Burbank said.

Moreover, future Mars explorers, Burbank added, should be capable of performing several tasks. "For example, you better be a good biologist, a good cook, and a good mechanic too. You should have at least three careers…and also be willing to take the garbage out."

The recent Stanford University Mars Society meeting brought to light a diverse menu of Mars exploration topics.

For instance, how do you get a leg up on Mars?

Try hanging over high canyon walls or scaling up gullies and crater faces. That’s the advice of Thomas Joslyn, a veteran rock hugger and graduate student of the University of North Dakota.

"It’s not a dangerous or stupid idea," Joslyn said, noting that the first batch of Mars explorers might dismiss rope climbing as risky business. Expeditionary teams could train en route by using a portable rock wall carried inside their Mars-bound spacecraft, he said.

Technology and techniques in vogue here on Earth by mountain climbers, such as nylon ropes and rappel devices can be adapted for Mars use. That hardware need not be heavy, complex, or even expensive. To explore canyon walls, caves, and caldera interiors, this equipment is perfect for ascending and descending steep terrain, Joslyn said.

For astronauts to high step Mars, however, space suits must be replete with gloves offering better dexterity. Rigid soled boots are a must too. More importantly, the outer layer of the suit has to be puncture-proof, particularly at the knees, shoulders, and elbows. A reinforced helmet and faceplate guard helps in fending off rock and pebbles let loose during climbs.

Joslyn said that, in the case of Mars, the one-third gravity works in favor of the rock climber. "A fall on Mars is more benign than here on Earth," he said.

Lastly, once safety is demonstrated and confidence is beefed up, Joslyn said, Mars survey crews can inspect nooks and crannies tough to get to by rover or walking.