The first day of set-up for SCP went pretty well. Despite PI last-minute adjustments and dead batteries both in the theodolite and in one of the vehicles, by the end of the day almost all infrastructure pieces were in place in the field. Most solar panels were connected to batteries to give them a good charge. One run of AC power cable also was positioned. Exceptions (all minor) are:
- A17 was downloaded at its old location, rather than new (not our fault)
- One charge controller left in a battery box in the base trailer
- Several stations are missing power cables that are still in use in Boulder
- A few booms made it to incorrect locations.
- The rad stand is not exactly placed. Larry and I will try to do it tomorrow, though we've formed a plan in any case.
With moderate rain tonight predicted to last till noon tomorrow, we likely will be slower tomorrow. However, we should get a good start on erecting towers.
One problem is that flagging of one of the soil sites was removed. (I found the bare metal wire of the flag several meters away today.) Also, the TP01 at this site had been removed from the ground and is lying on the surface (though it appears to be in perfect shape). I have spent a lot of time (even at low sun angles this morning) looking for traces in the area (I know to within 7m x 7m), but haven't been sure enough of any location to start digging for the buried cable ends. My current idea is to buy a metal detector! In any case, I'll have to rebury the TP01 after I find its PIC processor.