20th September 2040
The first landing since the arrival of Alpha 1 took place today as the Earth Return Vehicle Alpha A5 landed to the north-west of Alpha base. This was the first test of the new automated system using beacons placed by team members.
The landing of a second ERV means that the team now has the capacity to move twelve astronauts back to Earth should it be necessary to abandon the base or an emergency require a limited evacuation.
Some criticism has been raised that the base has more pressing needs than a second ERV - for example a working heavy rover. There is a long gap between launch and arrival however, and planners are unable to anticipate all changes in need. A second heavy rover is due to arrive next year.
The first landing since the arrival of Alpha 1 took place today as the Earth Return Vehicle Alpha A5 landed to the north-west of Alpha base. This was the first test of the new automated system using beacons placed by team members.
The landing of a second ERV means that the team now has the capacity to move twelve astronauts back to Earth should it be necessary to abandon the base or an emergency require a limited evacuation.
Some criticism has been raised that the base has more pressing needs than a second ERV - for example a working heavy rover. There is a long gap between launch and arrival however, and planners are unable to anticipate all changes in need. A second heavy rover is due to arrive next year.