Léa Bourgely - Crew Astronomer
I've been fascinated by astrophysics and astronomy since I was 14, which led me to complete a degree in physics with a major in astrophysics. In my spare time, I work as an astronomy trainer, teaching curious people how to use telescopes so that they can make their first observations independently, and providing them with the basics they need to pursue their passion. But more than astronomy, what really drives me is the notion of manned spaceflight: how can we send human beings into space? What are the consequences, and how can we counter them? What will it do for mankind?
As the mission's Crew Astronomer, I will be in charge of the MDRS telescopes: the Musk Observatory and the MDRS Robotic Observatory. The first telescope enables solar observations thanks to a 100mm Lunt, and the second is an automated, remotely-controlled device made up of a Schimdt-Cassegrain (Celestron) telescope, and enables photos to be taken of precise objects in the sky. I'm therefore at the service of astronomers to carry out their observations, but I also have to develop my own personal observation project.
Yves Bejach - Crew Scientist
Saint Exupéry once wrote, "It really is useful because it's pretty", and all was said. That was all it took for the young dreamer that I was, his head always in the clouds and his eyes far above the horizon, to start looking for the usefulness of those millions of "little golden things that make lazy people dream". From this initial spark, a passion for science, research and space developed over time.
My participation in this mission is a unique opportunity to contribute to research into manned space flight and exploration. As Crew Scientist, I'll be responsible for the smooth execution of the scientific experiments we'll be conducting in the MDRS, and will be particularly involved in all of them.
Erin Pougheon - Crew Journalist
Like many of us, I have always been fascinated by the world of the stars, space and the seemingly inaccessible. Curious and with an insatiable desire for discovery, these subjects have never ceased to fascinate me.
In 2018, thanks to a TV report, I first heard about ISAE-SUPAERO's MDRS mission. Students setting off to simulate Martian life, conduct scientific experiments and advance science? When I was 15, it was obvious: I had to join this school, I had to join this crew.
In 2023, I can say that this goal has been reached, but the most exciting part is still ahead of me. Taking part in this mission, as part of a more motivated than ever, close-knit crew, is a way for me to contribute to science, advance space exploration and give meaning to my passion. What's more, my literary sensibility will be very useful in sharing our days with everyone, as I am the crew's Journalist! I'm particularly keen to get our messages and images across, so that I can make others dream!
Lise Lefauconnier - Health and Safety Officer
Having a long-standing interest in space exploration, and in particular the physiological effects of human spaceflight, my participation in the MDRS is a unique opportunity to contribute to the study of human factors.
My interest in studying human reactions and behavior, my natural sensitivity and attentiveness to others, and my experience as a gymnast motivate me in my role: As the Health and Safety Officer, I'll be responsible for the moral and physical well-being of the crew, through daily sports sessions inside the station and moments of cohesion.
The variety of perspectives from which we approach analogue missions is priceless, and I'm more than motivated to make this mission a scientific and human success.
Leo Tokaryev - Crew Engineer
Space, exploration and science are more than a hobby to me: they're my motivation, my passion and my dream. That's why, ever since I was in high school, I've been heading in this direction, and joining ISAE-Supaero was one of my ambitions. I discovered the MDRS mission by leafing through the school's alpha brochure during my years in CPGE, and since then, the idea of being part of it has motivated me every day. I was extremely happy, proud and grateful to be accepted at the institute and to be able to apply to be part of the crew.
It's an honor for me to team up with the members of crew 293, each more dedicated, serious and pleasant than the last. I'll be their crew engineer, looking after the station's RAM, repairing and adapting the equipment used during the mission. I'll also be responsible for the station's integrity, making sure everything works as it should, and taking inventory of our resources.
Mathurin Franck - GreenHab Officer
After a challenging day of mountain hiking, I sometimes see the red planet standing out against the starry sky. It makes me want to carry on the adventure, to climb up there and understand what's going on. I love science, but not just in theory. What I enjoy is experimenting. So, as an aeronautics enthusiast, I've learned to fly a glider or to skydive.
I've committed myself to take part in this analog mission, alongside the Crew 293, to contribute to the development of tools that will enable us to safely explore the Moon and Mars. What drives me is the diversity of the scientific challenges raised, from the psychological impact to artificial intelligence, all the questions are open. During the mission, I'll be the Botanist. My job will be to look after the greenhouse. It provides fresh vegetables to improve our freeze-dried meals and, above all, the crew's morale. Additionally, we plan to use the greenhouse for an educational experiment involving high-school students.
