• Chalbi Desert Trek - Mission Beta

Site selection, establishing temporary camp site and designing Phase One of permanent site

DATES

MAY 01-03, 2025

ISOLATION

3 DAYS

CREW

3 ANALOG ASTRONAUTS

Despite delays, the Chalbi Desert Trek / Mission Alpha was a success in identifying potential habitat sites and laying the foundation for OASEAS as Africa’s first space analog research station.

The next critical phase involves securing land, enhancing local and international partnerships, and preparing for Mission Beta. Mars Society Kenya remains committed to realizing Africa’s role in space exploration and will ensure that OASEAS becomes a reality.

We call for stakeholders to support the establishment of a world-class analog research station in Africa, even as we continue tracking developments and providing further updates as the project progresses.

Jezero Crater & Fram Crater are categorized as Prime Site 1 due to their diverse terrain and accessibility.

Fra Mauro & Valles Marineris have vegetation, making them less ideal for a Martian simulation.

Utopia Planitia offers promising conditions but needs further exploration for a vegetation-free alternative.

Community engagement and land acquisition challenges must be addressed before finalizing the site.

Mission Scenario

The mission aims to;

  • Conduct field tests on a selected number of locations that will result in developing a Matrix that will guide the selection process of the ideal location to establish the habitat
  • Test the use of solar radiation panels before final deployment at the site
  • Test the waste management process within the habitat.

Having identified five locations as potential sites for constructing the Habitat, Mission Beta will focus on selecting the ideal location and kickstart the construction phase.

Such location must resemble both the Lunar and the Martian environment, we are therefore keen on what Marsabit will offer.

CREW

ISAAC GATHU

Pilot / Commander

FELISTUS WANJIRU

Mission Director / Mission Specialist

TRACY KIMATHI

Mission Specialist

RESEARCH TOPICS

Waste & Wastewater Management

Land Topography

Narural & Environmental Sciences

Renewable Energy Innovations

Architecture