Conduct of Geologic Field Work during Planetary Exploration: Implications for EVA Suit Design 2004-01-2289

Geologic fieldwork is the basic data gathering method by which geologic exploration is conducted, and it will be a principal activity in any advanced human exploration mission. The purpose of geologic fieldwork is to document the horizontal and, where made possible by topography, the vertical distribution of rock units and the structures, such as folds and faults, which modify them. These data are used to develop maps of the geology of a particular area, and to determine the variation, through time, of geologic processes, topography and in many cases climate. In order to conduct useful geologic field work in future exploration missions, EVA suits are going to require a significant degree of mobility, the ability to allow the crewmember to see the local terrain and geology without obstruction, and the dexterity to allow the manipulation of tools, samples and remote sensing equipment.