It's that time of year again:

The Mars Society is requesting volunteers to participate as members of the crew of the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) and Flashline Mars Arctic Research Station (FMARS) during extended simulations of human Mars exploration operations in the Utah desert (Nov 2003-April 2004) and on Devon Island (summer 2004).

Volunteers should state what segments of this span they are available. MDRS crew rotations are generally 2 weeks in duration, the FMARS season will consist of a single 4-week crew. Those wishing to serve in FMARS are encouraged to also apply to MDRS, as FMARS selection is extremely competitive and prior MDRS service is considered a strong plus in the crew selection process.

Both volunteer investigators who bring with them a proposed program of research of their own compatible with the objectives of MDRS or Flashline Station and those simply wishing to participate as members of the crew supporting the investigations of others will 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 act under crew discipline and strict mission protocols during the desert or Arctic simulation. Crew members traveling to Utah will be expected to pay their own way to Salt Lake City. FMARS crew members will pay their own travel expenses to Resolute Bay. The Mars Society will field expenses during the simulation in the Desert or the Arctic. There will be no salary. Applications including resume, character references, and a brief letter explaining why you wish to participate should be sent to Volunteers, Mars Society, PO Box 273, Indian Hills, CO 80454 no later than Oct 31, 2003 (for MDRS) or Jan 31, 2004 (for FMARS). Total length of applications should not exceed 3 pages.
Please include 3 copies.

For further information about the Mars Society, visit our website at www.marssociety.org.