Straight after Cologne I went to the South of France for 2 days of training at a private society called Firmus, located in Clermont-L’Hérault. I was accompanied by a few of my future fellow winter-overers; Alexis the plumber, Didier the technical chief, Sébastien the electrician and another summer campaigner. We learnt all about the Grey Water Treatment Unit which is at Concordia and which allows us to recycle water from the showers and sinks, thereby limiting our consumption of melted snow. ESA commissioned the machine, as it has direct applications for space. Another prototype of the machine is actually located on the International Space Station!
At Concordia, I will be responsible for performing the quality and safety measures of the water produced by the unit, at regular intervals. The training was a chance to remember a little about physics and marvel at ingenious mechanisms. It was also our very first surprise interview, for a local television news programme. Quite intimidating when all of a sudden you turn around and are faced with a micro and camera!!! We also took the opportunity to go visit nearby Montpellier, and I once more enjoyed a few strolls by the sea…
75 Degrees South 