NASA Desert RATS 9/12

On saturday a group of people came to Meteor Crater from the NASA RATS (research and technology studies) training ground outside of Flagstaff.  We found out that on sunday/monday would be a open community day to see the setup.   This is a annually event in the Arizona desert to test rovers, robots and habitat demonstrations.  A get together for NASA scientists, engineers, astronauts to test some of the future technology.   The open house was for the public/ media before NASA packs up to leave the area.  Learn more at      www.nasa.gov/desertrats

Monday 9/12
Kim & I headed out to Flagstaff and drove about 40 miles north to the NASA desert area. We spent over two hours seeing and learning so much regarding technology for future space adventures.  The Habitat unit was so cool.  We got a guided tour. It's where four humans can live very comfortable. It houses the living area and work labs. Attended lectures and were able to speak to some of the reserachers.
What a great experience.  
 

arriing to the parking lot

Lecture hall

demos on the robot

Habitat Unit

Roving vehicles

me next to a vheicle

Command center

small units for the researchers to relax in

the Desert area where the test is being held