As we set our sights towards the red planet, the question of how humans will survive on Mars has never been more pertinent. With advancements in technology and a collective global interest in space exploration, it seems that a manned mission to Mars is no longer a matter of “if”, but “when”.
The first and foremost concern that needs to be addressed is the harsh Martian environment. Mars’ thin atmosphere, composed mainly of carbon dioxide, is incapable of providing humans with the oxygen we need to breathe. To overcome this, habitats equipped with life support systems that can generate breathable air will need to be established.
Another challenge is Mars’ low temperatures, often dropping to -80 degrees Celsius at night. Therefore, our Martian habitats must also have robust heating systems. The habitats could utilize Mars’ abundant supply of perchlorate, a chemical compound that can be used to generate heat when combined with certain other substances.
Water is another essential resource for survival. Although Mars is a desert planet, recent discoveries have confirmed the presence of ice beneath its surface. This ice could potentially be mined and melted to provide drinking water. Furthermore, water is also a key ingredient in the creation of rocket fuel, which would be necessary for the return journey to Earth.
Food production on Mars presents another hurdle. The thin Martian soil, lacking in many vital nutrients, is not suited for traditional agriculture. However, scientists are exploring the use of hydroponics and aeroponics, methods of growing plants without soil, as potential solutions.
Finally, to protect against the harmful radiation from the sun and cosmic rays, habitats could be built underground or shielded with materials that can absorb or deflect this radiation.
Surviving on Mars will undoubtedly be a colossal challenge, requiring a combination of technological innovation, resourcefulness, and human resilience. However, these obstacles are not insurmountable. As we continue to push the boundaries of our knowledge and capabilities, the dream of humans living on Mars may soon become a reality.
Related Stories: https://www.nationalgeographic.org/media/settling-mars/#:~:text=the%20Martian%20surface.-,Answer,in%20the%20harsh%20Martian%20environment.
https://www.purdue.edu/space/how-would-you-survive-on-mars/
https://www.readersdigest.co.uk/lifestyle/technology/can-we-survive-on-mars
https://aeon.co/essays/what-dangers-must-we-overcome-before-we-can-live-on-mars
Take Action: https://www.spacex.com/vehicles/starship/
