The MDRS, which was visited by approximately 100,000 people while on display at Kennedy Space Center Visitor's Complex this past summer, is now in Denver for structural upgrades. It will be shipped to southern Utah in mid November, and built in the desert there during the period running from November 15 to December 7.

Station operations, which will support research in Mars field exploration techniques, will begin shortly afterwards. A call for volunteers for crew slots in the operational station will be sent out next week.

But the task now before us is to get the station built. If you have the skill, and have the will, please step forward and pitch in. Those wishing to volunteer should contact Frank Schubert, [email protected].

Selected volunteers will have their transportation and housing expenses paid for during the construction period. Salaries will not be paid.

Meanwhile, another group of volunteers are needed for the Mars Desert Research Station in southern Utah and Flashline Mars Arctic Research Station on Devon Island: hard work, no pay, eternal glory says Robert Zurbin president of the Mars Society.

At this stage an extended simulation of human Mars exploration operations is being planned for the period of December 2001 through August 2002. It is anticipated that the Desert Station field season will include two shakedown crew rotations during December 2001, followed by a set of rotations running from January through May 2002. It is anticipated that the Flashline Station field season will run from late June through late August 2002.

Volunteers should state clearly whether they are volunteering for the Desert or Flashline station or both, and what segments of these spans they are available.

Both volunteer investigators who bring with them a proposed program of research of their own compatible with the objectives of Desert or Flashline Stations and those simply wishing to participate as members of the crew supporting the investigations of others will be considered.

Research proposals which focus the effort of or require selection as a team of up to the full six-person crew will also be considered. Applications will be considered from anyone in good physical condition between 18 and 60 years of age without regard to race, creed, color, gender, or nation. Scientific, engineering, practical mechanical, wilderness, and literary skills are all considered a plus.

Dedication to the cause of human Mars exploration is an absolute must, as conditions are likely to be tough and the job will be very trying. Those selected will be required to participate in certain crew training exercises and to act under crew discipline and strict mission protocols during the simulations. All of those selected will also be required to sign a liability waiver.

The Mars Society will pay travel and related expenses during training and simulation, but, aside for potential student stipends, there will be no salary. Applications including resume, character references, and a brief letter explaining why you wish to participate should be sent to Mars Society, PO Box 273, Indian Hills, CO 80454 no later than Nov 30, 2001.

Those wishing to participate in the December 2001 Desert Station shakedowns should submit applications by Nov. 10, 2001. Total length of applications should not exceed 3 pages. Please include 9 copies.

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