Mike and Byron do the morning Aquarius maintenance and systems checkouts. The rest of us help out as we can. It is amazing how similar the overhead of running Aquarius is like the operation of the Space Station or the Space Shuttle. Air quality is a high priority, of course, in both places. Oxygen levels are monitored as well as the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) levels. A chemical called Soda Sorb is used on Aquarius to remove the CO2 that comes from our exhalation, just like the Lithium Hydroxide we use in space. The chemicals have to be changed periodically here, as well. To maintain comfort levels and for a healthy environment, the main lock and equipment lock are kept nice and cool (around 72 deg F). It helps us to be able to dry out after a dive, which is especially important to prevent ear infections. I also like it that way for sleeping at night. The power distribution systems here are also an integral part of Aquarius and important to maintain just like space, along with the various means of communications. All of the systems have redundancy in order to maintain a safe environment in the event of a failure, so it is important to maintain them and regularly check them out.

Today we are planning on getting started on a construction project that will help develop methodologies for conducting, controlling, and coordinating similar projects on orbit, in the future on Mars, or perhaps back on the Moon. We'll also discuss the mission on an internet "webcast." Greg, Jonathan, Mike, and Byron will be inside to give a tour and answer questions, while Danny and I are outside completing the construction and perhaps giving a wave through the porthole. It should be fun...

…speaking of… it's time to knock it off and go get ready.