MDRS Crew 337 Completes Successful Five-Sol Mission
Crew 337, representing Florida Institute of Technology, concluded a five-sol simulation at the Mars Desert Research Station with multiple research projects and psychological studies.
Crew 337, composed of six scholars from the Florida Institute of Technology, completed a five-sol simulation at the Mars Desert Research Station, operating under full Mars analog protocols. This mission served as the pilot for the university’s new Analog Research Program and involved four research projects focused on plant biology and satellite communication.
Throughout the mission, the crew conducted 11 extravehicular activities (EVAs) and operated under a 15-minute communications delay. An alternate crew member acted as Ground Control, supporting external research and communication efforts. In addition to the research projects, the team participated in two psychological studies to evaluate crew well-being through daily surveys.
The crew, which had no prior experience with MDRS missions, worked collaboratively to ensure the success of the mission. They exceeded expectations in research, habitat maintenance, and crew support. The mission fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and inspired each member’s aspirations to become astronauts.
Crew 337 concluded the MDRS 2025-2026 season with a successful mission, laying a solid foundation for the Florida Tech Analog Research Program. The crew also hosted a visiting journalism team on the final sol, allowing them to reflect on their experiences and the personal significance of the mission.
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