Comparisons of overall costs of SPS vs. standard USAP power generation are feasible - but not part of current study. Yes, Lake Bonney, Lake Fryxell, Lake Vanda, Lake Joyce, and Lake Miers. The project at Lake Hoare would reduce both noise and air pollution associated with standard power generation techniques - that is gas or diesel generators. Also, there would be the generation of heat for melting access holes in the lake. No, other than use of the SPS and the vision system on underwater vehicle, S-042's activities are the traditional use of chosen site.
Lake ice is sufficiently thick to provide working surface for underwater investigations.
Noise pollution would be minimal due to use of SPS for camp's supply of electricity. No, in fact the SPS would lessen substantially the requirement for gas or diesel generators typical of other dry valley field camps. No, underwater vehicle operations and scuba operations have no effluent except the diver's air supply exhaust. Diver exhaust air is a negligible input to the gas balance of the lake. Yes, it would lessen waste generation and management due to use of SPS for field camp power.