Conference Policies and Guidance for Attendees

Code of Conduct

The Conveners of the Ninth International Conference on Mars affirm that we desire participation from a diverse group of “martians” and commit that all participants have a right to pursue shared interests without harassment or discrimination, in an environment that is safe, productive, and welcoming. All participants are expected to help foster inclusive and equitable discussion at the conference, and to review and follow conference policies and guidance. 

Picture Taking

• Still pictures of presentations may be taken for personal use or for sharing on social media as long as (1) the taking of such pictures does not disrupt or distract from conference activities, and (2) presentation authors have not indicated clearly that they request no photos. If presenters do not want pictures of their presentations to be taken, they should state so verbally, at the start of an oral presentation. For both oral and poster presentations, this graphic should be clearly displayed:
• If authors have indicated clearly that they do not want pictures taken of their presentations, please do not take pictures.
• Video recording of any presentation is not allowed.

Social Media Sharing and Press

• Microblogging is encouraged, to help provide extended social media coverage of the conference and share information with people interested in the conference content but unable to attend. Blog, post, and tweet highlights of the conference should use the official conference hashtag: #9thMars.
• Journalists and public information officers from space science-related organizations are welcomed to attend, but are asked to identify as press upon registration. A press sticker will be added to your conference badge. As a professional courtesy, members of the media are asked to discuss any research of interest with the authors before publishing stories regarding their work, as a means of ensuring that authors’ works are accurately represented and cited.
• In all cases, please respect the photo policy (see above).

Should an Issue Occur

• If you experience or witness unacceptable behavior or safety issues, please notify a Conference Convener (such as Serina Diniega) immediately. If you are unable to reach one of the Conveners in person, please email [email protected]. Anonymous notices will be accepted, but please recognize that it may be easier for us to address a situation if more information is provided, and that issues raised will be held in confidence, as is appropriate. Please provide the time that the issue occurred and a description of the issue.
• If you experience or witness an issue with the venue (e.g., a water fountain has stopped working or the restrooms need a cleaning), please alert someone at the registration table or email [email protected]. Please provide adequate description so the issue can be addressed promptly.
• Anyone experiencing or witnessing behavior that constitutes an immediate or serious threat to public safety is advised to call Caltech Security (x5000 from a Caltech phone, or 626-395-500) or to call 911 (general emergency services).
• Anyone requested to stop unacceptable or unsafe behavior is expected to comply immediately.  Failure to comply may result in further action.

Guidance for Attendees

• Guidance about hotels, travel, and refreshment options can be found under Logistics.
• Click here to download a map of on-campus food vendors, ADA-compliant access, gender neutral restrooms, and quiet spaces. Additionally, email Dr. Serina Diniega if you may need access to the lactation room (with fridge). Maps will also be available onsite.
• Temperatures can be very hot in mid-July, and the poster venue and walkway between oral session venues are outdoors. There will be some shade and a few water fountains, but we recommend wearing clothing appropriate for a hot, outdoor, bright environment, and bringing a (refillable) water bottle. Layered clothing is recommended for moving repeatedly between indoor and outdoor venues.
• Water (in a water bottle) is the only refreshment allowed inside of the rooms where the oral sessions will be held.
• Please avoid wearing strong scents as some in our community are allergic or sensitive to such products.
• Seating will be available in many areas for rest, work, and side-meetings. Dabney Hall has indoor seating for ~100. Groups with (≥20 people) may use Dabney Hall during a lunch, please check at the Registration table for availability. (Groups with <20 people do not need to check, but please be respectful if a large group is in there and conducting a meeting.
• Registration will be in front of the Beckman Auditorium from 7:30 a.m. on Monday and 8:00 a.m. Tuesday–Thursday. Additionally, attendees with advanced registration can pick up their badge in the lobby of Hotel Constance on Sunday, July 21, 5:00–6:00 p.m. Attendees must sign in and pick up their badge. A badge is needed to attend conference activities. Onsite registration will be possible, but advanced registration is strongly encouraged to aid with planning and badge printing and is due by July 11.
• There is generally a lack of WiFi and power outlets inside of rooms where oral sessions will be held. Please plan accordingly.