Mars habitat: Difference between revisions
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{{short description| |
{{short description|Facility where humans could live on Mars}} |
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[[File:PIA23302-FirstHumansOnMars-ArtistConcept.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|NASA artwork of a potential Mars habitat in conjunction with other surface elements on Mars]] |
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[[File:Mars Ice Home concept.jpg|thumb|300px|[https://cloudsao.com/MARS-ICE-HOME Mars Ice Home] design for a Mars base (NASA LaRC / Clouds Architecture Office, 2016)|alt=]] |
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[[File:S89 51054.jpg|thumb|right|Various components of the [[Mars Outpost]] proposal. (M. Dowman, 1989)<ref name=NASA>{{cite web|url=http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/images/mars/marsbases/html/s89_51054.html |title=Photo-s89_51054 |publisher=Spaceflight.nasa.gov |date= | |
[[File:S89 51054.jpg|thumb|right|Various components of the [[Mars Outpost]] proposal. (M. Dowman, 1989)<ref name=NASA>{{cite web|url=http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/images/mars/marsbases/html/s89_51054.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000304055928/http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/images/mars/marsbases/html/s89_51054.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2000-03-04 |title=Photo-s89_51054 |publisher=Spaceflight.nasa.gov |date= |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref>]] |
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[[File:Mars design reference mission 3.jpg|thumb|1990s era NASA design featuring 'spam can' type habitat landers. The downside may be minimal shielding for crew, and two ideas are to use Mars materials, such as ice to increase shielding, and another is move underground, perhaps caves]] |
[[File:Mars design reference mission 3.jpg|thumb|1990s era NASA design featuring 'spam can' type habitat landers. The downside may be minimal shielding for the crew, and two ideas are to use Mars materials, such as ice, to increase shielding, and another is to move underground, perhaps caves]] |
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A '''Mars habitat''' is a place |
A '''Mars habitat''' is a hypothetical place where humans could live on [[Mars]].<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Changela|first1=Hitesh G.|last2=Chatzitheodoridis|first2=Elias|last3=Antunes|first3=Andre|last4=Beaty|first4=David|last5=Bouw|first5=Kristian|last6=Bridges|first6=John C.|last7=Capova|first7=Klara Anna|last8=Cockell|first8=Charles S.|last9=Conley|first9=Catharine A.|last10=Dadachova|first10=Ekaterina|last11=Dallas|first11=Tiffany D.|date=December 2021|title=Mars: new insights and unresolved questions|url=https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/international-journal-of-astrobiology/article/mars-new-insights-and-unresolved-questions/F0E43D7EC62EA126262CB66DF069ABA0|journal=International Journal of Astrobiology|language=en|volume=20|issue=6|pages=394–426|doi=10.1017/S1473550421000276|arxiv=2112.00596|bibcode=2021IJAsB..20..394C|s2cid=244773061|issn=1473-5504}}</ref><ref name="hyperallergic1">{{cite web|url = http://www.cnet.com/news/3d-printable-ice-house-could-be-our-home-on-mars/|title = 3D-printable ice house could be our home on Mars|publisher = cnet.com|date = September 29, 2015|access-date = 2015-11-20}}</ref> Mars habitats would have to contend with surface conditions that include almost no oxygen in the [[air]], extreme cold, low pressure, and high radiation.<ref name=psh>{{cite web|last=Fecht |first=Sarah |url=http://www.popsci.com/8-printable-martian-habitat-designs-that-we-want-to-live-in |title=8 Printable Martian Habitat Designs That We Want To Live In | Popular Science |publisher=[[Popsci.com]] |date=2015-09-16 |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> Alternatively, the habitat might be placed underground, which helps solve some problems but creates new difficulties.<ref name=wired1>{{cite magazine|last=Shubber |first=Kadhim |url=https://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2013-09/06/underground-mars-habitat |title=Concept for underground Mars habitat marks dawn of Martian mole-people |magazine=Wired UK |date=2013-09-06 |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> |
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One challenge is the extreme cost of building materials |
One challenge is the extreme cost of transporting building materials to the Martian surface, which by the 2010s was estimated to be about US$2 million per brick.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.structuremag.org/?p=12389|title=STRUCTURE magazine {{!}} Structural Challenges for Space Architecture|website=www.structuremag.org|language=en-US|access-date=2017-12-31}}</ref> While the gravity on Mars is lower than that on [[Earth]], there are stronger solar radiation and temperature cycles, and high internal forces needed for pressurized habitats to contain air.<ref name="structuremag.org">{{Cite web|url=http://www.structuremag.org/?p=12389|title = STRUCTURE magazine | Structural Challenges for Space Architecture}}</ref> |
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To contend with these constraints, architects have worked to understand the right balance between in-situ materials and construction, and ex-situ to Mars.<ref name="spacearchitect.org"> |
To contend with these constraints, architects have worked to understand the right balance between in-situ materials and construction, and ex-situ to Mars.<ref name="spacearchitect.org">{{Cite web |url=http://www.spacearchitect.org/pubs/ICES-2016-019.pdf |title=Habitat design – Mars ex-situ and in-situ resources utilization}}<!-- for future reference improvement, this is the source: https://ttu-ir.tdl.org/handle/2346/67463 --></ref> For example, one idea is to use the locally available [[regolith]] to shield against radiation exposure, and another idea is to use transparent ice to allow non-harmful light to enter the habitat.<ref name="spacearchitect.org"/> Mars habitat design can also involve the study of local conditions, including pressures, temperatures, and local materials, especially water.<ref name="spacearchitect.org"/> |
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==Overview== |
==Overview== |
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[[File:EXPO TOWER.JPG|thumb|upright|The unique design of this 1970 tower structure at [[Expo '70]] in Japan highlights the alternative forms that structures in new environments might take]] |
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[[File:Solar54 - Argentina.png|alt=Solar54 - Argentina|thumb|upright|Solar54 - Argentina]] |
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Significant challenges for Mars habitats are maintaining an artificial environment and shielding from intense [[solar radiation]]. Humans require a pressurized environment at all times and protection from the toxic Martian atmosphere. Connecting habitats is useful, as moving between separate structures requires a pressure suit or perhaps a Mars rover. One of the largest issues lies in simply getting to Mars, which means escaping Earth's atmosphere, sustaining the journey to Mars, and finally landing on the surface of Mars. One helpful aspect is the Mars atmosphere, which allows for aerobraking, meaning less need for using propellant to slow a craft for safe landing. However, the amount of energy required to transfer material to the surface of Mars is an additional task beyond simply getting into orbit. During the late 1960s, the United States produced the Saturn V rocket, which was capable of launching enough mass into orbit required for a single-launch trip holding a crew of three to the surface of the Moon and back again. This feat required a number of specially designed pieces of hardware and the development of a technique known as the [[Lunar orbit rendezvous|Lunar Orbit Rendezvous]]. The Lunar Orbit Rendezvous was a plan to coordinate the descent and ascent vehicles for a rendezvous in Lunar orbit. Referring to Mars, a similar technique would require a [[Mars Excursion Module]], which combines a crewed descent-ascent vehicle and short stay surface habitat. Later plans have separated the descent-ascent vehicle and surface habitat, which further developed into separate descent, surface stay, and ascent vehicles using a new design architecture. In 2010 the [[Space Launch System]], or growth variants therefore, is envisioned as having the payload capacity and qualities needed for human Mars missions, utilizing the [[Orion (spacecraft)|Orion]] capsule. |
Significant challenges for Mars habitats are maintaining an artificial environment and shielding from intense [[solar radiation]]. Humans require a pressurized environment at all times and protection from the toxic Martian atmosphere. Connecting habitats is useful, as moving between separate structures requires a pressure suit or perhaps a Mars rover. One of the largest issues lies in simply getting to Mars, which means escaping Earth's atmosphere, sustaining the journey to Mars, and finally landing on the surface of Mars. One helpful aspect is the Mars atmosphere, which allows for aerobraking, meaning less need for using propellant to slow a craft for safe landing. However, the amount of energy required to transfer material to the surface of Mars is an additional task beyond simply getting into orbit. During the late 1960s, the United States produced the Saturn V rocket, which was capable of launching enough mass into orbit required for a single-launch trip holding a crew of three to the surface of the Moon and back again. This feat required a number of specially designed pieces of hardware and the development of a technique known as the [[Lunar orbit rendezvous|Lunar Orbit Rendezvous]]. The Lunar Orbit Rendezvous was a plan to coordinate the descent and ascent vehicles for a rendezvous in Lunar orbit. Referring to Mars, a similar technique would require a [[Mars Excursion Module]], which combines a crewed descent-ascent vehicle and short stay surface habitat. Later plans have separated the descent-ascent vehicle and surface habitat, which further developed into separate descent, surface stay, and ascent vehicles using a new design architecture. In 2010 the [[Space Launch System]], or growth variants therefore, is envisioned as having the payload capacity and qualities needed for human Mars missions, utilizing the [[Orion (spacecraft)|Orion]] capsule. |
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⚫ | One of the challenges for Mars habitats is maintaining the climate, especially the right temperature in the right places.<ref name="discovermagazine1">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/fieldnotes/2013/07/15/the-challenges-of-climate-control-in-a-mars-habitat/#.Vj50gPBdgnc |title=The Challenges of Climate Control in a Mars Habitat - Field Notes |publisher=Blogs.discovermagazine.com |date=2013-07-15 |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> Electronic devices and lights generate heat that rises in the air, even as there are extreme temperature fluctuations outside.<ref name="discovermagazine1"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasa.gov/feature/eight-universities-selected-2016-x-hab-challenge |title=Eight Universities Selected for NASA's 2016 X-Hab Academic Innovation | NASA |publisher=Nasa.gov |date= June 2015|access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> |
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On the surface of Mars some human needs: |
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*Air |
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*Food |
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*Water |
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*Shelter |
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*Toilet |
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*Sleep |
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*Bathing |
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⚫ | One idea for a Mars habitat is to use a Martian cave or [[lava tube]], and an inflatable air-lock was proposed by [[Caves of Mars Project]] for making use of such a structure.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.highmars.org/niac/airlock.html |title=COM - Inflatable Cave Habitat |website=www.highmars.org |access-date=15 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070807050052/http://www.highmars.org/niac/airlock.html |archive-date=7 August 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The idea of living in lava tubes has been suggested for their potential to provide increased protection from [[radiation]], temperature fluctuation, Martian sunlight, etc.<ref name="lightsinthedark.com">{{Cite web|url=https://lightsinthedark.com/2015/03/04/could-humans-set-up-camp-in-martian-lava-tubes/|title = Could Humans Set up Camp in Martian Lava Tubes?|date = 4 March 2015 |first=Jason |last=Major |work=Lights in the Dark}}</ref> An advantage of living underground is that it avoids the need to create a radiation shield above ground.<ref name="marsdaily.com">{{Cite web|url=http://www.marsdaily.com/reports/NASA_Chief_Were_Closer_to_Sending_Humans_on_Mars_Than_Ever_Before_999.html|title = NASA Chief: We're Closer to Sending Humans on Mars Than Ever Before |work=Mars Daily |date=October 30, 2015}}</ref> Another idea is to use robots to construct the base in advance of human's arrival.<ref name="marsdaily.com"/> |
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⚫ | One of the challenges for Mars habitats is maintaining the climate, especially the right temperature in the right places.<ref name="discovermagazine1">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/fieldnotes/2013/07/15/the-challenges-of-climate-control-in-a-mars-habitat/#.Vj50gPBdgnc |title=The Challenges of Climate Control in a Mars Habitat - Field Notes |publisher=Blogs.discovermagazine.com |date=2013-07-15 | |
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⚫ | The use of living plants or other living biologicals to aid in the air and food supply if desired can have major impact on the design.<ref name="Greenhouses for Mars">{{Cite web |url=https://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2004/25feb_greenhouses |title=Greenhouses for Mars |date=February 25, 2004 |work=NASA Science |language=en |access-date=January 1, 2018 |archive-date=May 15, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170515184534/https://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2004/25feb_greenhouses |url-status=dead }}</ref> An example of how [[engineering]] demands and operational goals can interact, is a reduced-pressure greenhouse area. This would reduce the structural demands of maintaining [[air pressure]], but require the relevant plants to survive at that lower pressure. Taken to an extreme, the question remains just how a low a pressure could a plant survive in and still be useful.<ref name="Greenhouses for Mars"/> |
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⚫ | One idea for a Mars habitat is to use a Martian cave or [[lava tube]], and an inflatable air-lock was proposed by [[Caves of Mars Project]] for making use of such a structure.<ref> |
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⚫ | A Mars habitat may need to focus on keeping a certain type of plant alive, for example, as part of supporting its inhabitants.<ref name="The Caves of Mars">{{Cite web|url=http://www.highmars.org/niac/niac04.html|title=The Caves of Mars - Flat Crops for Mars|date=2007-07-01|access-date=2018-01-08|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070701234427/http://www.highmars.org/niac/niac04.html|archive-date=2007-07-01}}</ref> NASA's [[Caves of Mars Project|Caves of Mars]] study suggested the following food and food production characteristics:<ref name="The Caves of Mars"/> |
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{{pquote|Get your ass to Mars|Buzz Aldrin<ref name="lightsinthedark.com"/>}} |
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⚫ | The use of living plants or other living biologicals to aid in the air and food supply if desired can have major impact on the design.<ref name="science.nasa.gov |
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Taken to an extreme, the question remains just how a low a pressure could a plant survive in and still be useful.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2004/25feb_greenhouses|title=Greenhouses for Mars {{!}} Science Mission Directorate|website=science.nasa.gov|language=en|access-date=2018-01-08}}</ref> |
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⚫ | A Mars habitat may need to focus on keeping a certain type of plant alive for example, as part of supporting its inhabitants.<ref name="The Caves of Mars">{{Cite web|url=http://www.highmars.org/niac/niac04.html|title=The Caves of Mars - Flat Crops for Mars|date=2007-07-01|access-date=2018-01-08|url-status= |
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NASA Caves of Mars study suggested the following aspects to a bio support for inhabitant food in their example:<ref name="The Caves of Mars"/> |
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*Rapid growth |
*Rapid growth |
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* |
*survival in low light |
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*wide [[pH]] range |
*wide [[pH]] range |
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*high [[nutrition]] |
*high [[nutrition]] |
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*minimal waste |
*minimal waste |
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The study noted two plants, [[Lemnoideae|duckweed]] (''Lemna minor'') and water fern (''[[Azolla filiculoides]]''), as particularly suitable, and they grow on the surface of water.<ref> |
The study noted two plants, [[Lemnoideae|duckweed]] (''Lemna minor'') and water fern (''[[Azolla filiculoides]]''), as particularly suitable, and they grow on the surface of water.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.highmars.org/niac/niac04.html |title=The Caves of Mars - Flat Crops for Mars |website=www.highmars.org |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070701234427/http://www.highmars.org/niac/niac04.html |archive-date=1 July 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The Mars habitat would have to support the conditions of these food sources, possibly incorporating elements from greenhouse design or farming. |
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Historically, space missions tend to have a non-growing food supply eating out of set amount of rations like [[Skylab]], replenished with resupply from Earth. Using plants to |
Historically, space missions tend to have a non-growing food supply eating out of set amount of rations like [[Skylab]], replenished with resupply from Earth. Using plants to affect the atmosphere and even enhance food supply was experimented with the 2010s aboard the [[International Space Station]]. |
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Another issue is waste management. On Skylab all waste was put in a big tank; on Apollo and the [[Space Shuttle]] urine could be vented out into space or pushed away in bags to re-enter Earth's atmosphere. |
Another issue is waste management. On Skylab all waste was put in a big tank; on Apollo and the [[Space Shuttle]] urine could be vented out into space or pushed away in bags to re-enter Earth's atmosphere. |
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Considerations for |
Considerations for maintaining the environment in a closed system included, removal of carbon dioxide, maintaining air pressure, supply of oxygen, temperature and humidity, and stopping fires. Another issue with closed system is keeping it free from contamination from emissions from different materials, dust, or smoke. One concern on Mars is the effect of the fine dust of the [[Martian soil]] working its way into the living quarters or devices. The dust is very fine and accumulates on solar panels, amongst other surfaces.<ref>{{cite web|title=Fine dust on the surface of Mars|date=20 December 2021|url=https://universeh.eu/fine-dust-on-the-surface-of-mars/|publisher=European Space University for Earth and Humanity|access-date=12 December 2022}}</ref> |
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===Relevant technologies=== |
===Relevant technologies=== |
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[[File: |
[[File:ArtemisI_Orion_EMI_Feb.jpg|thumb|[[Orion spacecraft]]]] |
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Some possible areas of needed technology or expertise: |
Some possible areas of needed technology or expertise: |
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*[[3D Printing]] |
*[[3D Printing]] |
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A Mars habitat is often conceived as part of an ensemble of Mars base and infrastructure technologies.<ref name="Bossinas">{{Cite web|url=https://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/multimedia/artgallery/art_feature_004_C91-8781.html|title=NASA - Multifunction Mars Base|last=Bossinas|first=Les|website=www.nasa.gov|language=en|access-date=2018-02-20}}</ref> Some examples include Mars EVA suits, Mars rover, aircraft, landers, storage tanks, communication structures, mining, and Mars-movers (e.g. [[Heavy equipment|Earth-moving equipment]]).<ref name="Bossinas"/> |
A Mars habitat is often conceived as part of an ensemble of Mars base and infrastructure technologies.<ref name="Bossinas">{{Cite web|url=https://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/multimedia/artgallery/art_feature_004_C91-8781.html|title=NASA - Multifunction Mars Base|last=Bossinas|first=Les|website=www.nasa.gov|language=en|access-date=2018-02-20}}</ref> Some examples include Mars EVA suits, Mars rover, aircraft, landers, storage tanks, communication structures, mining, and Mars-movers (e.g. [[Heavy equipment|Earth-moving equipment]]).<ref name="Bossinas"/> |
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A Mars habitat might exist in the context of a human expedition, outpost, or colony on Mars.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"> |
A Mars habitat might exist in the context of a human expedition, outpost, or colony on Mars.<ref name="history.nasa.gov">{{Cite web |url=https://history.nasa.gov/DPT/Technology%20Priorities%20Recommendations/Mars%20Medical%20Status%20DPT%20%20Aug_99.pdf |title=Decadel Planning Team: "Medical Aspects of Exploration Missions" |work=NASA JSC Medical Sciences Division |date=August 1999}}</ref> |
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===Air=== |
===Air=== |
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[[Image:Soda bubbles macro.jpg|thumb|right|Bubbles of [[gas]] in a [[soft drink]] (soda pop)]] |
[[Image:Soda bubbles macro.jpg|thumb|right|Bubbles of [[gas]] in a [[soft drink]] (soda pop)]] |
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[[File:Aquabulle 4.jpg|thumb|People inside a clear diving bell on Earth]] |
[[File:Aquabulle 4.jpg|thumb|People inside a clear diving bell on Earth]] |
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In creating a habitat for people, some considerations are maintaining the right air temperature, the right air pressure, and the composition of that atmosphere. |
In creating a habitat for people, some considerations are maintaining the right air temperature, the right air pressure, and the composition of that atmosphere. |
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While it is possible for humans to breathe pure oxygen, a pure oxygen atmosphere was implicated in the [[Apollo 1]] fire. As such, Mars habitats may have a need for additional gases. One possibility is to take [[nitrogen]] and [[argon]] from the [[atmosphere of Mars]]; however, they are hard to separate from each other.<ref name=gas/> As a result, a Mars habitat may use 40% argon, 40% nitrogen, and 20% oxygen.<ref name=gas>{{cite web|url=http://www.highmars.org/niac/niac02.html| |
While it is possible for humans to breathe pure oxygen, a pure oxygen atmosphere was implicated in the [[Apollo 1]] fire. As such, Mars habitats may have a need for additional gases. One possibility is to take [[nitrogen]] and [[argon]] from the [[atmosphere of Mars]]; however, they are hard to separate from each other.<ref name=gas/> As a result, a Mars habitat may use 40% argon, 40% nitrogen, and 20% oxygen.<ref name=gas>{{cite web|url=http://www.highmars.org/niac/niac02.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070724100724/http://www.highmars.org/niac/niac02.html|title=The Caves of Mars - Martian Air Breathing Mice|archive-date=24 July 2007|work=highmars.org|access-date=12 June 2015}}</ref> See also [[Argox]], for the argon breathing gas mixture used in scuba diving |
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A concept to scrub CO2 from the breathing air is to use re-usable [[amine]] bead [[carbon dioxide scrubber]] |
A concept to scrub {{CO2}} from the breathing air is to use re-usable [[amine]] bead [[carbon dioxide scrubber]]s.<ref name="spectrum.ieee.org2">{{Cite web|url=https://spectrum.ieee.org/suiting-up-for-the-red-planet|title = Suiting up for the Red Planet|date = 30 September 2015}}</ref> While one carbon dioxide scrubber filters the astronaut's air, the other can vent scrubbed {{CO2}} to the Mars atmosphere, once that process is completed another one can be used, and the one that was used can take a break.<ref name="spectrum.ieee.org">{{cite web|last=Courtland |first=Rachel |url=https://spectrum.ieee.org/suiting-up-for-the-red-planet |title=Suiting Up for the Red Planet - IEEE Spectrum |publisher=[[IEEE]] |date=2015-09-30 |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> |
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[[File:Martian habitat with colonists.jpg|thumb|Mars habitats with astronauts]] |
[[File:Martian habitat with colonists.jpg|thumb|Mars habitats with astronauts]] |
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One unique structural force that Mars habitats must contend with if pressurized to Earth's atmosphere, is the force of air on the inside walls.<ref name="structuremag.org"/> This has been estimated at over |
One unique structural force that Mars habitats must contend with if pressurized to Earth's atmosphere, is the force of air on the inside walls.<ref name="structuremag.org"/> This has been estimated at over {{convert|2,000|lb/sqft}} for a pressurized habitat on the surface of Mars, which is radically increased compared to Earth structures.<ref name="structuremag.org"/> A closer comparison can be made to crewed high-altitude aircraft, which must withstand forces of {{convert|1,100|to|1,400|lb/sqft}} when at altitude.<ref name="structuremag.org"/> |
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At about 150 thousand feet of altitude (28 miles (45 km)) on Earth, the atmospheric pressure starts to be equivalent to the surface of Mars.<ref name="hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu"> |
At about 150 thousand feet of altitude (28 miles (45 km)) on Earth, the atmospheric pressure starts to be equivalent to the surface of Mars.<ref name="hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu">{{Cite web|url=http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/Kinetic/barfor.html|title = The Barometric Formula}}</ref> |
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! scope="row" | [[Mount Everest]] summit<ref>{{cite |
! scope="row" | [[Mount Everest]] summit<ref>{{cite journal|author=John B. West|url=http://jap.physiology.org/content/86/3/1062.full| title=John B. West – '''Barometric pressures on Mt. Everest: new data and physiological significance''' (1998)|journal=Journal of Applied Physiology| publisher=Jap.physiology.org|date=1 March 1999|volume=86|issue=3|pages=1062–1066|doi=10.1152/jappl.1999.86.3.1062|pmid=10066724|s2cid=27875962 |access-date=15 May 2012}}</ref> |
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! scope="row" | Surface of [[Venus]]<ref name=Basilevsky2003>{{cite journal|last1=Basilevsky|first1=Alexandr T.|last2=Head|first2=James W.|title=The surface of Venus|journal=Rep. Prog. Phys.|year=2003|volume=66|issue=10|pages=1699–1734|doi=10.1088/0034-4885/66/10/R04|bibcode = 2003RPPh...66.1699B}}</ref> |
! scope="row" | Surface of [[Venus]]<ref name=Basilevsky2003>{{cite journal|last1=Basilevsky|first1=Alexandr T.|last2=Head|first2=James W.|title=The surface of Venus|journal=Rep. Prog. Phys.|year=2003|volume=66|issue=10|pages=1699–1734|doi=10.1088/0034-4885/66/10/R04|bibcode = 2003RPPh...66.1699B|s2cid=13338382|url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/13e87bf184cd5ab307423190918ae68f05a13667}}</ref> |
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{{clear}} |
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⚫ | One of the challenges for a Mars habitat is for it to maintain suitable temperatures in the right places in a habitat.<ref name="discovermagazine1"/> Things like electronics and lights generate heat that rises in the air, even as there are extreme temperature fluctuation outside.<ref name="discovermagazine1"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasa.gov/feature/eight-universities-selected-2016-x-hab-challenge |title=Eight Universities Selected for NASA's 2016 X-Hab Academic Innovation | NASA |publisher=Nasa.gov |date= June 2015|access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> There can be large temperature swings on Mars, for example at the equator it may reach 70 degrees F (20 degrees C) in the daytime but then go down to minus 100 degrees F (−73 C) at night.<ref name="space.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.space.com/16907-what-is-the-temperature-of-mars.html|title=What is the Temperature of Mars?|website=[[Space.com]]|date=30 November 2017}}</ref> |
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;Temperature |
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⚫ | One of the challenges for a Mars habitat is for it to maintain suitable temperatures in the right places in a habitat.<ref name="discovermagazine1"/> Things like electronics and lights generate heat that rises in the air, even as there are extreme temperature fluctuation outside.<ref name="discovermagazine1"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasa.gov/feature/eight-universities-selected-2016-x-hab-challenge |title=Eight Universities Selected for NASA's 2016 X-Hab Academic Innovation | NASA |publisher=Nasa.gov |date= | |
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Examples of Mars surface temperatures:<ref name="space.com"/> |
Examples of Mars surface temperatures:<ref name="space.com"/> |
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===Temporary vs permanent habitation=== |
===Temporary vs permanent habitation=== |
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[[File:MarsGroundHabitat.jpg|thumb| |
[[File:MarsGroundHabitat.jpg|thumb|A vision for habitats published by NASA from ''CASE FOR MARS'' from the 1980s, featuring the re-use of landing vehicles, in-situ soil use for enhanced radiation shielding, and green houses. A bay for a Mars rover is also visible.]] |
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[[File: |
[[File:Lander Landed Image2.jpg|thumb|A human landing on Mars would necessitate different levels of support for habitation]] |
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A short term stay on the surface of Mars does not require a habitat to have a large volume or complete shielding from radiation. The situation would be similar to the [[International Space Station#Radiation|International Space Station]], where individuals receive an unusually high amount of radiation for a short duration and then leave.<ref>http://www.adl.gatech.edu/research/tff/radiation_shield.html</ref> A small and light habitat can be transported to Mars and used immediately. |
A short term stay on the surface of Mars does not require a habitat to have a large volume or complete shielding from radiation. The situation would be similar to the [[International Space Station#Radiation|International Space Station]], where individuals receive an unusually high amount of radiation for a short duration and then leave.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.adl.gatech.edu/research/tff/radiation_shield.html |title=Untitled Document |access-date=2017-06-06 |archive-date=2019-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190528234640/http://www.adl.gatech.edu/research/tff/radiation_shield.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> A small and light habitat can be transported to Mars and used immediately. |
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Long term permanent habitats require much more volume (i.e.:[[greenhouse]]) and thick shielding to minimize the annual dose of radiation received. This type of habitat is too large and heavy to be sent to Mars, and must be constructed making use of some local |
Long term permanent habitats require much more volume (i.e.:[[greenhouse]]) and thick shielding to minimize the annual dose of radiation received. This type of habitat is too large and heavy to be sent to Mars, and must be constructed making use of some local resources. Possibilities include covering structures with ice or soil, excavating subterranean spaces or sealing the ends of an existing [[Martian lava tube|lava tube]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.zaarchitects.com/en/other/103-mars-colonization.html|title=Mars colonization}}</ref> |
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A larger settlement may be able to have a larger medical staff, increasing the ability to deal with health issues and emergencies.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> Whereas a small expedition of 4–6 may be able to have 1 medical doctor, an outpost of 20 might be able to have more than one and nurses, in addition to those with emergency or paramedic training.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> A full settlement may be able to achieve the same level of care as a contemporary Earth hospital.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> |
A larger settlement may be able to have a larger medical staff, increasing the ability to deal with health issues and emergencies.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> Whereas a small expedition of 4–6 may be able to have 1 medical doctor, an outpost of 20 might be able to have more than one and nurses, in addition to those with emergency or paramedic training.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> A full settlement may be able to achieve the same level of care as a contemporary Earth hospital.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> |
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===Medical=== |
===Medical=== |
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One problem for medical care on Mars missions, is the difficulty in returning to Earth for advanced care, and providing adequate emergency care with a small crew size.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> A crew of six might have only trained |
One problem for medical care on Mars missions, is the difficulty in returning to Earth for advanced care, and providing adequate emergency care with a small crew size.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> A crew of six might have only one crew member trained to the level of emergency medical technician and one physician, but for a mission that would last years.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> In addition, consultations with Earth would be hampered by a 7 to 40 minute time lag.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> Medical risks include exposure to radiation and reduced gravity, and one deadly risk is a [[Solar particle event|Solar Particle Event]] that can generate a lethal dose over the course of several hours or days if the astronauts do not have enough shielding.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> Materials testing has recently been done to explore spacesuits and "storm shelters" for protection from Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GRC) and Solar Particle Events (SPE's) during launch, transit, and habitation upon Mars.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sciworthy.com/building-a-better-spacesuit-for-a-trip-to-mars/|title = Building a better spacesuit for a trip to Mars|date = 8 March 2021 |work=Sciworthy |first=Subajit |last=Hazra}}</ref> Medical preparedness also requires that the effect of radiation on stored pharmaceuticals and medical technology would have to be taken into account as well.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> |
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One of the medical supplies that may be needed is [[intravenous fluid]], which is mostly water but contains other things so it can be added directly to the |
One of the medical supplies that may be needed is [[intravenous fluid]], which is mostly water but contains other things so it can be added directly to the blood stream. If it can be created on the spot from existing water then it could spare the weight of hauling earth-produced units, whose weight is mostly water.<ref name=ivegen>{{cite web |url=http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/news/IVGEN.html |title=A Solution for Medical Needs and Cramped Quarters in Space IVGEN Undergoes Lifetime Testing in Preparation For Future Missions |work=NASA |date=7 June 2013 |access-date=12 June 2015 |archive-date=12 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160412152906/http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/research/news/IVGEN.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> A prototype for this capability was tested on the [[International Space Station]] in 2010.<ref name=ivegen /> |
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On some of the first crewed missions, three types of medications that were taken into orbit |
On some of the first crewed missions, three types of medications that were taken into orbit; the [[antiemetic]] [[trimethobenzamide]]; the [[Analgesic|painkiller]] [[pethidine]]; the [[stimulant]] [[dextroamphetamine]].<ref name="IFLScience">{{Cite news|url=http://www.iflscience.com/space/what-medicines-would-we-pack-trip-mars/|title=What Medicines Would We Pack For A Trip To Mars?|work=IFLScience |first=Nial |last=Wheate |date=October 2, 2015|access-date=2018-03-07|language=en}}</ref> By the time of ISS, space crew-persons had almost 200 medications available, with separate pill cabinets for Russians and Americans.<ref name="IFLScience"/> One of the many concerns for crewed Mars missions is what pills to bring and how the astronauts would respond to them in different conditions.<ref name="IFLScience"/> |
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In 1999, NASA's Johnson Space Center published ''Medical Aspects of Exploration Missions'' as part of the [[Decadal survey|Decadal Survey]].<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> On a small mission it might be possible to have one be a medical doctor and another be a paramedic, out of a crew of perhaps 4–6 people, however on a larger mission with 20 people there could also be a nurse and options like minor surgery might be possible.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> Two major categories for space would be emergency medical care and then more advanced care, dealing with a wide range concerns due to space-travel.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> For very small crews its difficult to treat a wide range issues with advanced care, whereas with a team with an overall size of 12–20 on Mars there could be multiple doctors and nurses, in addition to EMT-level certifications.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> While not at the level of a typical Earth hospital this would transition medical are beyond basic options typical of very small crew sizes (2–3) where the accepted risk is higher.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> |
In 1999, NASA's Johnson Space Center published ''Medical Aspects of Exploration Missions'' as part of the [[Decadal survey|Decadal Survey]].<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> On a small mission it might be possible to have one be a medical doctor and another be a paramedic, out of a crew of perhaps 4–6 people, however on a larger mission with 20 people there could also be a nurse and options like minor surgery might be possible.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> Two major categories for space would be emergency medical care and then more advanced care, dealing with a wide range concerns due to space-travel.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> For very small crews its difficult to treat a wide range issues with advanced care, whereas with a team with an overall size of 12–20 on Mars there could be multiple doctors and nurses, in addition to EMT-level certifications.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> While not at the level of a typical Earth hospital this would transition medical are beyond basic options typical of very small crew sizes (2–3) where the accepted risk is higher.<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> |
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With a modest number of Mars inhabitants and medical crew, [[robot-assisted surgery]] could be considered. A crew member would operate the robot with help via telecommunications from Earth.<ref name="Hollingham">{{Cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20151125-the-challenges-of-carrying-out-surgery-in-space|title=The grim and gory reality of surgery in space|last=Hollingham|first=Richard |date=November 25, 2015 |work=BBC Future |language=en|access-date=2018-03-07}}</ref> Two examples of medical-care situations that have been mentioned in regard to people on Mars is how to deal with a broken leg and an [[appendicitis]].<ref name="Hollingham"/> One concern is to stop what would otherwise be a minor injury from becoming life-threatening due to restrictions on the amount of [[medical equipment]], training, and the time-delay in communication with Earth.<ref name="Hollingham"/> The time delay for a one way message ranges from 4 to 24 minutes, depending.<ref name="blogs.esa.int">{{Cite web|url=http://blogs.esa.int/mex/2012/08/05/time-delay-between-mars-and-earth/|title=Time delay between Mars and Earth – Mars Express}}</ref> A response to a message takes that time, the delay processing the message and creating a reply, plus the time for that message to travel to Mars (another 4 to 24 minutes).<ref name="blogs.esa.int"/> |
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Examples of acute medical emergency |
Examples of acute medical emergency scenarios for Mars missions:<ref name="history.nasa.gov"/> |
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*Wounds, lacerations, and burns |
*Wounds, lacerations, and burns |
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*Exposure to a toxin |
*Exposure to a toxin |
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*Psychiatric |
*Psychiatric |
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An example of spaceflight related health emergency was the [[inert gas asphyxiation]] with nitrogen gas aboard Space Shuttle |
An example of spaceflight related health emergency was the [[inert gas asphyxiation]] with nitrogen gas aboard Space Shuttle Columbia in 1981, when it was undergoing preparations for its launch <ref name="wired.com">{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/2009/03/march-19-1981-shuttle-columbias-first-fatalities/|title=March 19, 1981: Shuttle Columbia's First Fatalities|magazine=Wired|last1=Long|first1=Tony}}</ref> In that case, a routine purge with nitrogen to decrease risk of fire lead to 5 medical emergencies and 2 deaths.<ref name="wired.com"/> Another infamous space related accident is the [[Apollo 1]] incident, when a pure oxygen atmosphere ignited in the interior of space capsule during tests on the ground, three died.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.space.com/17338-apollo-1.html|title = Apollo 1: The Fatal Fire|website = [[Space.com]]|date = 16 November 2017}}</ref> A 1997 study of about 280 space travelers between 1988 and 1995, found that only 3 did not have some sort of medical issue on their spaceflight.<ref name="jeromegroopman.com">{{cite magazine |url=http://jeromegroopman.com/ny-articles/MedicineOnMars-02142000.pdf |title=Medicine On Mars: How sick can you get during three years in deep space? |first=Jerome |last=Groopman |date=February 14, 2000 |magazine=[[The New Yorker]] |via=jeromegroopman.com}}</ref> A medical risk for a Mars surface mission is how the astronauts will handle operations on the surface after several months in zero gravity.<ref name="jeromegroopman.com"/> On Earth, astronauts are usually carted from the spacecraft and take a long time to recover.<ref name="jeromegroopman.com"/> |
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See [[Space medicine]] |
See [[Space medicine]] |
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===Library=== |
===Library=== |
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[[File:Library Tower - Flickr - treegrow.jpg|thumb|Library Tower of |
[[File:Library Tower - Flickr - treegrow.jpg|thumb|Library Tower of [[Biosphere 2]], an Earth analog space habitat tested in the 1990s]] |
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One idea for a Mars missions is a [[library]] sent to the surface of that planet.<ref name="planetary.org"> |
One idea for a Mars missions is a [[library]] sent to the surface of that planet.<ref name="planetary.org">{{Cite web|url=http://www.planetary.org/press-room/releases/2008/0527_Phoenix_Takes_Image_of_First_Library_on.html|title = Phoenix Takes Image of First Library on Mars |date=May 27, 2008 |first=Mat |last=Kaplan |work=The Planetary Society}}</ref> The Phoenix lander, which landed on the North polar surface of Mars in 2008, included a DVD library that was heralded as the first library on Mars.<ref name="planetary.org"/> The Phoenix library DVD would be taken by future explorers who could access the content on the disk.<ref name="planetary.org"/> The disc, both a memorial to the past and a message to the future, took 15 years to produce.<ref name="planetary.org"/> The content on the disc includes ''Visions of Mars''.<ref name="planetary.org"/> One idea for exploration is [[knowledge ark]]s for space, a sort of back-up of knowledge in case something happens to Earth.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/08/070814-lunar-ark.html |title='Lunar Ark' Proposed in Case of Deadly Impact on Earth |first=Kevin Holden |last=Platt |work=National Geographic News |date=August 14, 2007 |access-date=2018-03-07 |archive-date=2018-02-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180227174409/https://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/08/070814-lunar-ark.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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The Biodome 2 spaceflight and closed-loop biosphere test included a library with the living quarters.<ref name="insidetucsonbusiness.com"> |
The Biodome 2 spaceflight and closed-loop biosphere test included a library with the living quarters.<ref name="insidetucsonbusiness.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.insidetucsonbusiness.com/news/once-threatened-biosphere-continues-mission-under-ua/article_5581b3a7-11c1-5c5c-aadb-65eec80e58f0.html|title = Once threatened Biosphere 2 continues mission under UA |date=March 21, 2008 |first=Jeremy |last=Thomas |work=Inside Tucson Business}}</ref> The library was positioned at the top of a tower, and known as Library tower.<ref name="insidetucsonbusiness.com"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://suncruisermedia.com/Home/rv-travel/biospere-2/|title = Biosphere 2 – Where Science Lives|date = 3 July 2014}}</ref> |
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===Meteor impacts=== |
===Meteor impacts=== |
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[[File:PIA11176 - A Recent Cluster of Impacts.jpg|thumb|left|Fresh impact craters detected in the early 2000s by Mars satellites]] |
[[File:PIA11176 - A Recent Cluster of Impacts.jpg|thumb|left|Fresh impact craters detected in the early 2000s by Mars satellites]] |
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Another consideration for Mars habitats, especially for long-term stay, is the need to potentially deal with a meteor impact.<ref name="O'Neill">{{Cite news|url=https://www.seeker.com/mars-meteorite-impact-crater-nasa-mro-hirise-image-2248298212.html|title=Mars Was Recently Hit by a Meteorite 'Shotgun' Blast|last=O'Neill|first=Ian|date=2017-02-08|work=Seeker|access-date=2018-01-14}}</ref><ref name="structuremag.org"/> |
Another consideration for Mars habitats, especially for long-term stay, is the need to potentially deal with a meteor impact.<ref name="O'Neill">{{Cite news|url=https://www.seeker.com/mars-meteorite-impact-crater-nasa-mro-hirise-image-2248298212.html|title=Mars Was Recently Hit by a Meteorite 'Shotgun' Blast|last=O'Neill|first=Ian|date=2017-02-08|work=Seeker|access-date=2018-01-14}}</ref><ref name="structuremag.org"/> |
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Because the atmosphere is thinner, more meteors make it to the surface. So, one concern is that a meteor might puncture the surface of the habitat and thereby cause a loss of pressure and/or damage systems.<ref name="O'Neill"/><ref name="structuremag.org"/> |
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In the 2010s it was determined that something struck the surface of Mars, creating a spattering pattern of larger and smaller craters between 2008 and 2014.<ref> |
In the 2010s it was determined that something struck the surface of Mars, creating a spattering pattern of larger and smaller craters between 2008 and 2014.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.seeker.com/mars-meteorite-impact-crater-nasa-mro-hirise-image-2248298212.html|title = Mars Was Recently Hit by a Meteorite 'Shotgun' Blast}}</ref> In this case the atmosphere only partially disintegrated the meteor before it struck the surface.<ref name="O'Neill"/> |
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{{clear}} |
{{clear}} |
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===Radiation=== |
===Radiation=== |
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Radiation exposure is a concern for astronauts even on the surface, as Mars lacks a strong magnetic field and atmosphere is thin to stop as much radiation as Earth. However, the planet does reduce the radiation significantly especially on the surface, and it is not detected to be radioactive itself. |
Radiation exposure is a concern for astronauts even on the surface, as Mars lacks a strong magnetic field, and atmosphere is too thin to stop as much radiation as Earth. However, the planet does reduce the radiation significantly especially on the surface, and it is not detected to be radioactive itself. |
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It has been estimated that sixteen feet (5 meters) of Mars regolith stops the same amount of radiation as Earth's atmosphere.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.spacesafetymagazine.com/space-exploration/mars-mission/earthlings-martians-living-red-planet-affect-human-bodies/|title=How Will Living On Mars Affects Our Human Body?|date=2014-02-11|work=Space Safety Magazine|access-date=2018-01-14|language=en-US}}</ref> |
It has been estimated that sixteen feet (5 meters) of Mars regolith stops the same amount of radiation as Earth's atmosphere.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.spacesafetymagazine.com/space-exploration/mars-mission/earthlings-martians-living-red-planet-affect-human-bodies/|title=How Will Living On Mars Affects Our Human Body?|date=2014-02-11|work=Space Safety Magazine|access-date=2018-01-14|language=en-US}}</ref> |
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===Power=== |
===Power=== |
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[[File:Astronauts approach Viking 2.jpg|thumb|Space art illustrating a group approaching the Viking 2 lander probe, which were supported by RTG power]] |
[[File:Astronauts approach Viking 2.jpg|thumb|Space art illustrating a group approaching the Viking 2 lander probe, which were supported by RTG power]] |
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For a 500-day crewed Mars mission NASA has studied using solar power and nuclear power for its base, as well as power storage systems (e.g. batteries).<ref name="ntrs.nasa.gov"> |
For a 500-day crewed Mars mission NASA has studied using solar power and nuclear power for its base, as well as power storage systems (e.g. batteries).<ref name="ntrs.nasa.gov">{{Cite report|url=https://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/20120012929.pdf|title = Power Requirements for the NASA Mars Design Reference Architecture (DRA) 5.0|date = 14 June 2009}}</ref> Some of the challenges for solar power include a reduction in solar intensity (because Mars is farther from the sun), dust accumulation, periodic dust storms, and storing power for night-time use.<ref name="ntrs.nasa.gov"/> Global Mars dust storms cause lower temperatures and reduce sunlight reaching the surface.<ref name="ntrs.nasa.gov"/> Two ideas for overcoming this are to use an additional array deployed during a dust storm and to use some nuclear power to provide base-line power that is not affected by the storms.<ref name="ntrs.nasa.gov"/> NASA has studied nuclear-power fission systems in the 2010s for Mars surface missions.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite news|url=https://www.space.com/37348-nasa-fission-power-mars-colony.html|title=NASA to Test Fission Power for Future Mars Colony|work=Space.com|access-date=2018-03-25}}</ref> One design planned an output of 40 kilowatts; nuclear power fission is independent of sunlight reaching the surface of Mars, which can be affected by dust storms.<ref name="ReferenceA"/><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/nasa-seeks-nuclear-power-for-mars/|title=NASA Seeks Nuclear Power for Mars|last=Klotz, SPACE.com|first=Irene|work=Scientific American|access-date=2018-03-25|language=en}}</ref> |
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Another idea for power is to beam the power to the surface |
Another idea for power is to beam the power to the surface from a solar power satellite to a rectifying antenna (aka [[rectenna]]) receiver.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/23884970 |last1=Curreri |first1=Peter |last2=Rose |first2=M. |date=2001 |title=Construction of Power Receiving Rectenna Using Mars- In-Situ Materials; A Low Energy Materials Processing Approach |via=[[ResearchGate]]}}</ref> 245 GHz, laser, in-situ rectenna construction, and 5.8 GHz designs have been studied.<ref name="Curreri">{{Cite report|last1=Curreri|first1=Peter|last2=Franklin Rose|first2=M|date=2001-02-01|title=Construction of Power Receiving Rectenna Using Mars- In-Situ Materials; A Low Energy Materials Processing Approach|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/23884970}}</ref> One idea is combine this technology with Solar Electric Propulsion to achieve a lower mass than surface solar power.<ref name="Curreri"/> The big advantage of this approach to power is that the rectennas should be immune to dust and weather changes, and with the right orbit, a solar power Mars satellite could beam power down continuously to the surface.<ref name="Curreri"/> |
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Technology to clean dust off the solar panels was considered for [[Mars Exploration Rover]]'s development.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newscientist.com/blogs/shortsharpscience/2008/11/why-dont-the-mars-rovers-have.html |title=Why don't the Mars rovers have dust wipers? |work=New Scientist |first=Henry |last=Spencer |date=17 November 2008}}</ref> In the 21st century |
Technology to clean dust off the solar panels was considered for [[Mars Exploration Rover]]'s development.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newscientist.com/blogs/shortsharpscience/2008/11/why-dont-the-mars-rovers-have.html |title=Why don't the Mars rovers have dust wipers? |work=New Scientist |first=Henry |last=Spencer |date=17 November 2008}}</ref> In the 21st century ways have been proposed for cleaning off solar panels on the surface of Mars.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ceramics.org/ceramic-tech-today/mars-cleaning-tech-offers-method-to-sweep-dust-off-earths-solar-panels |title=Mars cleaning tech offers method to sweep dust off Earth's solar panels |publisher=The American Ceramic Society |date=25 August 2010}}</ref> The effects of [[Martian soil|Martian surface dust]] on [[solar cell]]s was studied in the 1990s by the [[Materials Adherence Experiment]] on [[Mars Pathfinder]].<ref name="Results">{{cite conference |chapter=Dust on Mars: Materials Adherence Experiment results from Mars Pathfinder |conference=Photovoltaic Specialists Conference. 29 September-3 October 1997. Anaheim, California. |first1=G. A. |last1=Landis |first2=P. P. |last2=Jenkins |title=Conference Record of the Twenty Sixth IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference - 1997 |date=1997 |pages=865–869 |doi=10.1109/PVSC.1997.654224|isbn=0-7803-3767-0 }}</ref><ref name="Science">{{cite journal |title=Characterization of the Martian surface deposits by the Mars Pathfinder rover, Sojourner |journal=[[Science (journal)|Science]] |first1=J. R. |last1=Matijevic |first2=J. |last2=Crisp |first3=D. B. |last3=Bickler |first4=R. S. |last4=Banes |first5=B. K. |last5=Cooper |display-authors=etal |volume=278 |issue=5344 |pages=1765–1768 |date=December 1997 |doi=10.1126/science.278.5344.1765 |bibcode=1997Sci...278.1765M |pmid=9388171|doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://ualr.edu/mkmazumder/research.html |title=UALR Particulate Science Research |publisher=University of Arkansas at Little Rock |date=2013 |access-date=20 February 2014}}</ref> |
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{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="float:left; margin-right:20px" |
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="float:left; margin-right:20px" |
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==History== |
==History== |
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[[File:PIA23302-FirstHumansOnMars-ArtistConcept.jpg| |
[[File:PIA23302-FirstHumansOnMars-ArtistConcept.jpg|upright=1.35|thumb|NASA vision for the first Humans On Mars<br />(Artist Concept; 2019)]] |
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One early idea for a Mars habitat was to use put short stay accommodation in a Mars ascent-descent vehicle. This combination was called a [[Mars Excursion Module]], and also typically featured other components such as basic rover and science equipment. Later missions tended to shift to a dedicated descent/ascent with a separate habitat. |
One early idea for a Mars habitat was to use put short stay accommodation in a Mars ascent-descent vehicle. This combination was called a [[Mars Excursion Module]], and also typically featured other components such as basic rover and science equipment. Later missions tended to shift to a dedicated descent/ascent with a separate habitat. |
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In 2013 ZA architects proposed having digging robots build a Mars habitat underground.<ref name=wired1/> They chose an interior inspired by [[Fingal's Cave]] and noted the increased protection from high-energy radiation below ground.<ref name=wired1/> On the other hand, the issue of the difficulty of sending digging robots that must construct the habitat versus landing capsules on the surface was also noted.<ref name=wired1/> An alternative may be to build above ground |
In 2013 ZA architects proposed having digging robots build a Mars habitat underground.<ref name=wired1/> They chose an interior inspired by [[Fingal's Cave]] and noted the increased protection from high-energy radiation below ground.<ref name=wired1/> On the other hand, the issue of the difficulty of sending digging robots that must construct the habitat versus landing capsules on the surface was also noted.<ref name=wired1/> An alternative may be to build above ground using thick ice to shield from radiation. This approach has the advantage of allowing light in.<ref name="hyperallergic1"/> |
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In 2015 the SHEE project |
In 2015 the Self-deployable Habitat for Extreme Environments (SHEE) project explored the idea of autonomous construction and preparation for Mars habitat versus human construction, because the latter is "risky, complex, and costly."<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.space.com/30553-self-deploying-mars-habitats-shee.html |title=Future Mars Explorers Could Live in Habitats That Build Themselves |work=Space.com |date=September 16, 2015 |first=Leonard |last=David}}</ref> |
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==NASA== |
==NASA== |
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[[File:Tri-ATHLETE (2010).jpg|thumb|NASA six-legged mobile habitat module (TRI-ATHLETE)]] |
[[File:Tri-ATHLETE (2010).jpg|thumb|NASA six-legged mobile habitat module (TRI-ATHLETE)]] |
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[[File:Habitat Demonstration Unit (2010) cropped androtated.jpg|thumb|Habitat Demonstration Unit of the [[Desert Research and Technology Studies]]]] |
[[File:Habitat Demonstration Unit (2010) cropped androtated.jpg|thumb|Habitat Demonstration Unit of the [[Desert Research and Technology Studies]]]] |
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In early 2015 NASA outlined a conceptual plan for three stage Mars habitat design and construction award program.<ref name="techtimes1">{{cite web|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/54113/20150519/know-design-3d-printed-habitat-mars-nasa-2-25-million.htm |title=NASA Offers $2.25 Million For Martian Habitat Design - How Could This Contest Help People On Earth? : SCIENCE |publisher=Tech Times |date= | |
In early 2015 NASA outlined a conceptual plan for a three stage Mars habitat design and construction award program.<ref name="techtimes1">{{cite web|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/54113/20150519/know-design-3d-printed-habitat-mars-nasa-2-25-million.htm |title=NASA Offers $2.25 Million For Martian Habitat Design - How Could This Contest Help People On Earth? : SCIENCE |publisher=Tech Times |date= 19 May 2015|access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> The first stage called for a design. The next stage requested plans for construction technology that used discarded spacecraft components. The third stage involved building a habitat using 3D printing technology.<ref name="techtimes1"/> |
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In September 2015, NASA announced the winners of its 3-D Printed Habitat Challenge.<ref name=nasa1>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasa.gov/directorates/spacetech/centennial_challenges/3DPHab/2015winners.html |title=NASA Awards Top Three Design Finalists in 3D Printed Habitat Challenge | NASA |publisher=Nasa.gov |date= | |
In September 2015, NASA announced the winners of its 3-D Printed Habitat Challenge.<ref name=nasa1>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasa.gov/directorates/spacetech/centennial_challenges/3DPHab/2015winners.html |title=NASA Awards Top Three Design Finalists in 3D Printed Habitat Challenge | NASA |publisher=Nasa.gov |date= 27 September 2015|access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> The winning submission titled '''Mars Ice House''<nowiki/>'<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cloudsao.com/MARS-ICE-HOUSE|title=MARS ICE HOUSE - Clouds Architecture Office|website=www.cloudsao.com|access-date=2017-03-22}}</ref> by Clouds Architecture Office / SEArch proposed a 3D-printed double ice shell surrounding a lander module core.<ref name="hyperallergic1"/> Two European teams were awarded runner up prizes.<ref name=nasa1/> The contenders explored many possibilities for materials, with one suggesting separately refining iron and silica from the Martian dust and using the iron to make a lattice-work filled in with silica panels.<ref>{{cite web|last=Fecht |first=Sarah |url=http://www.popsci.com/8-printable-martian-habitat-designs-that-we-want-to-live-in?image=3 |title=8 Printable Martian Habitat Designs That We Want To Live In | Popular Science |publisher=Popsci.com |date=2015-09-16 |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> There were 30 finalists selected from an initial pool of 165 entries in the habitat challenge.<ref>{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.sciencealert.com/3d-printed-ice-habitat-concept-for-mars-draws-acclaim-from-nasa |title=3D-printed ice habitat concept for Mars draws acclaim from NASA |publisher=ScienceAlert |date=2015-10-02 |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> The second-place winner proposed the printing robots build a shield out of in-situ materials around inflatable modules.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/picture-galleries/11896687/Top-10-Mars-habitats-from-NASA-space-habitat-challenge.html?frame=3456077 |title=Top 10 Mars habitats from NASA space habitat challenge |newspaper=Telegraph |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> |
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Other NASA projects that have developed extraterrestrial surface habitats are the X-Hab challenge and the [[Habitation Systems Project]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/technology/deep_space_habitat/xhab/index.html#.Vj53HPBdgnc |title=NASA - eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge |publisher=Nasa.gov |date= |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/technology/deep_space_habitat/ |title=NASA - Habitation Systems Project - NASA's Deep Space Habitat |publisher=Nasa.gov |date=2012-12-11 |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> |
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The Sfero House by Fabulous also a contender in the 3D Mars Habitat program, featured levels above and below ground |
The Sfero House by Fabulous, also a contender in the 3D Mars Habitat program, featured levels above and below ground.<ref name=dezsfero>{{Cite web |url=http://www.dezeen.com/2015/09/11/fabulous-double-domed-3d-printed-sfero-bubble-house-mars-red-planet/ |title=3D-printed bubble house proposed for living on Mars |date=2015-09-11 |first=Emma |last=Tucker |work=Dezeen}}</ref> The proposed location was Gale crater (of Curiosity rover fame) with a focus on using both in-situ iron and water, which would hopefully be available there.<ref name=dezsfero/> It has a double-walled spherical design filled with water to both keep the higher pressure of Mars habitat in but help protect against radiation.<ref name=dezsfero/> |
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In 2016, NASA awarded the first prize of its In-Situ Materials Challenge to University of Southern California engineering professor [[Behrokh Khoshnevis]] "for Selective Separation Sintering -- a 3D-printing process that makes use of powder-like materials found on Mars." |
In 2016, NASA awarded the first prize of its In-Situ Materials Challenge to University of Southern California engineering professor [[Behrokh Khoshnevis]] "for Selective Separation Sintering -- a 3D-printing process that makes use of powder-like materials found on Mars."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/02/21/tech/nasa-3d-printing-colony-mars |title=Meet the man working with NASA to 3D print a colony on Mars |work=[[CNN]] |date=2017-02-22 |first=Kate |last=Springer |access-date=2017-06-21}}</ref> |
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[[File:Mars Ice Home concept.jpg|thumb|Mars Ice Home design for a Mars base<ref>{{cite web |title=Mars Ice Home |url=https://cloudsao.com/MARS-ICE-HOME |website=cloudsao.com |publisher=Clouds Architecture Office |access-date=1 March 2024 |language=en}}</ref> (NASA LaRC / Clouds AO / SEArch+, 2016)|alt=]] |
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In 2016 NASA Langley showed the Mars Ice |
In 2016 NASA Langley showed the Mars Ice Home, which used in-situ water to make an ice structure conceptually similar to an [[iglo]], as part of the design of a Mars habitat.<ref name="Gillard">{{Cite news|url=https://www.nasa.gov/feature/langley/a-new-home-on-mars-nasa-langley-s-icy-concept-for-living-on-the-red-planet|title=A New Home on Mars: NASA Langley's Icy Concept for Red Planet Living|last=Gillard|first=Eric|date=2016-12-13|work=NASA|access-date=2018-01-20|language=en}}</ref> |
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In June 2018, NASA selected the top ten finalists of Phase 3: Level 1 in the [[3D-Printed Habitat Challenge]].<ref name="Harbaugh">{{Cite news|url=https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/spacetech/centennial_challenges/3DPHab/top-10-virtual-model-stage|title=Top 10 Teams Selected in Virtual Stage of 3D-Printed Habitat Challenge|last=Harbaugh|first=Jennifer|date=2018-06-28|work=NASA|access-date=2018-07-14|language=en}}</ref> |
In June 2018, NASA selected the top ten finalists of Phase 3: Level 1 in the [[3D-Printed Habitat Challenge]].<ref name="Harbaugh">{{Cite news|url=https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/spacetech/centennial_challenges/3DPHab/top-10-virtual-model-stage|title=Top 10 Teams Selected in Virtual Stage of 3D-Printed Habitat Challenge|last=Harbaugh|first=Jennifer|date=2018-06-28|work=NASA|access-date=2018-07-14|language=en}}</ref> |
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*X-Arc – San Antonio, Texas |
*X-Arc – San Antonio, Texas |
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In May 2019, NASA announced that the top winner of the 3D Printed Habitat Challenge was from AI SpaceFactory, with an entry called "Marsha," and there was several other prizes awarded also.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.space.com/nasa-3d-printed-habitat-competition-winners.html|title=Here's the Winner of NASA's 3D-Printed Mars Habitat Challenge|last= |
In May 2019, NASA announced that the top winner of the 3D Printed Habitat Challenge was from AI SpaceFactory, with an entry called "Marsha," and there was several other prizes awarded also.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.space.com/nasa-3d-printed-habitat-competition-winners.html|title=Here's the Winner of NASA's 3D-Printed Mars Habitat Challenge|last= Howell |first=Elizabeth |website=Space.com|date=10 May 2019|language=en|access-date=2019-09-29}}</ref> In the final challenge contestants had 30 hours to build 1/3 scale models using robotic construction technology.<ref name=":0" /> |
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==Mars analogs and analog habitat studies== |
==Mars analogs and analog habitat studies== |
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[[File:Wiki bio2 sunset 001.jpg|thumb|[[Biosphere 2]] tested a closed-loop greenhouse and accommodation in the early 1990s]] |
[[File:Wiki bio2 sunset 001.jpg|thumb|[[Biosphere 2]] tested a closed-loop greenhouse and accommodation in the early 1990s]] |
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{{main|Mars analog habitat}} |
{{main|Mars analog habitat}} |
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Mock Mars missions or Mars analog missions typically construct terrestrial habitats on Earth and conduct mock missions, taking steps to solve some of the problems that could be faced |
Mock Mars missions or Mars analog missions typically construct terrestrial habitats on Earth and conduct mock missions, taking steps to solve some of the problems that could be faced on Mars.<ref>{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/mock-mars-mission-utah-habitat-simulates-life-on-red-planet/ |title=Mock Mars mission: Utah habitat simulates life on red planet |publisher=[[CBS News]] |date=2014-01-03 |access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> An example of this was the original mission of [[Biosphere 2]], which was meant to test closed ecological systems to support and maintain human life in outer space.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.encyclopedia.com/science-and-technology/biology-and-genetics/environmental-studies/biosphere-ii-project|title=Biosphere II Project facts, information, pictures {{!}} Encyclopedia.com articles about Biosphere II Project|website=www.encyclopedia.com|language=en|access-date=2017-02-09}}</ref> Biosphere 2 tested several people living in a closed loop biological system, with several biological support areas including rainforest, savannah, ocean, desert, marsh, agriculture, and a living space.<ref name="Alling 250–260">{{Cite journal|last1=Alling|first1=Abigail|last2=Van Thillo|first2=Mark|last3=Dempster|first3=William|last4=Nelson|first4=Mark|last5=Silverstone|first5=Sally|last6=Allen|first6=John|date=2005-01-01|title=Lessons Learned from Biosphere 2 and Laboratory Biosphere Closed Systems Experiments for the Mars On Earth Project|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/242368741|journal=Biological Sciences in Space|volume=19|issue=4|pages=250–260|doi=10.2187/bss.19.250|doi-access=free}}</ref> |
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An example of Mars analog comparison mission is [[HI-SEAS]] of the 2010s. Other Mars analog studies include [[Mars Desert Research Station]] and [[Arctic Mars Analog Svalbard Expedition]] |
An example of Mars analog comparison mission is [[HI-SEAS]] of the 2010s. Other Mars analog studies include [[Mars Desert Research Station]] and [[Arctic Mars Analog Svalbard Expedition]]. |
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*[[Australia Mars Analog Research Station]] |
*[[Australia Mars Analog Research Station]] |
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*[[Concordia Station]] |
*[[Concordia Station]] |
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The ISS has also been described as a predecessor to Mars expedition, and in relation to a Mars habitat the study importance and nature of operation a closed system was noted.<ref>{{cite book|author=Martin J.L. Turner|title=Expedition Mars|url=https:// |
The ISS has also been described as a predecessor to Mars expedition, and in relation to a Mars habitat the study importance and nature of operation a closed system was noted.<ref>{{cite book|author=Martin J.L. Turner|title=Expedition Mars|url=https://archive.org/details/expeditionmars00turn|url-access=registration|year=2004|publisher=Springer Science & Business Media|isbn=978-1-85233-735-3|page=[https://archive.org/details/expeditionmars00turn/page/298 298]}}</ref> |
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At about 28 miles (45 km, 150 thousand feet ) Earth altitude the pressure starts to be equivalent to Mars surface pressure.<ref name="hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu"/> |
At about 28 miles (45 km, 150 thousand feet ) Earth altitude the pressure starts to be equivalent to Mars surface pressure.<ref name="hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu"/> |
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==Biodomes== |
==Biodomes== |
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⚫ | [[Image:Paranal residencia.jpg |
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⚫ | One example concept that is or is in support of habitat is a Mars biodome, a structure that could hold life generating needed oxygen and food for humans.<ref name="techtimes2">{{cite web|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/53120/20150514/oxygen-mars-bacteria.htm |title=Need Oxygen On Mars? Get It From Bacteria! : SCIENCE |publisher=Tech Times |date= 14 May 2015|access-date=2015-11-08}}</ref> An example of activity in support of this goals, was a program to develop bacteria that could convert the Martian regolith or ice into [[oxygen]].<ref name="techtimes2"/> Some issues with biodomes are the rate at which gas leaks out and the level of oxygen and other gases inside it.<ref name="Alling 250–260"/> |
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⚫ | |||
⚫ | One example concept that is or is in support of habitat is a Mars biodome, a structure that could hold life generating needed oxygen and food for humans.<ref name="techtimes2">{{cite web|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/53120/20150514/oxygen-mars-bacteria.htm |title=Need Oxygen On Mars? Get It From Bacteria! : SCIENCE |publisher=Tech Times |date= | |
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One question for Biodomes is how low the pressure could be lowered to, and the plants still be useful.<ref name=" |
One question for Biodomes is how low the pressure could be lowered to, and the plants still be useful.<ref name="Greenhouses for Mars"/> In one study where air pressure was lowered to 1/10 of Earth's air pressure at the surface, the plants had a higher rate of evaporation from its leaves.<ref name="Greenhouses for Mars"/> This triggered the plant to think there was drought, despite it having a steady supply of water.<ref name="Greenhouses for Mars"/> An example of a crop NASA tested growing at lower pressure is lettuce, and in another test [[green beans]] were grown at a standard air pressure, but in low Earth orbit inside the International Space Station.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nasa.gov/vision/earth/livingthings/25feb_greenhouses.html|title=NASA - Greenhouses for Mars|last=Science@NASA|website=www.nasa.gov|language=en|access-date=2018-01-17}}</ref> |
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The DLR found that some [[lichen]] and bacteria could survive in simulated Martian conditions, including air composition, pressure, and solar radiation spectrum.<ref name="dlr.de"> |
The DLR found that some [[lichen]] and bacteria could survive in simulated Martian conditions, including air composition, pressure, and solar radiation spectrum.<ref name="dlr.de">{{Cite web|url=http://www.dlr.de/dlr/en/desktopdefault.aspx/tabid-10081/151_read-3409#/gallery/5671|title = Relaunch explanation}}</ref> The Earth organisms survived for over 30 days under Mars conditions, and while it was not known if they would survive beyond this, it was noted they seemed to be performing [[photosynthesis]] under those conditions.<ref name="dlr.de"/> |
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To convert the entirety of Mars into a biodome directly, scientists have suggested the [[cyanobacteria]] [[Chroococcidiopsis]].<ref name="ReferenceB">{{Cite web|url=https://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2001/ast26jan_1/|title=Greening of the Red Planet {{!}} Science Mission Directorate|website=science.nasa.gov|language=en|access-date=2018-01-14}}</ref> This would help convert the regolith into soil by creating an organic element.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> That bacteria is known to survive in extremely cold and dry conditions on Earth, so might provide a basis for bioengineering Mars into a more habitable place.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> As the bacteria reproduces the dead ones would create an organic layer in the regolith potentially paving the way for more advanced life.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |
To convert the entirety of Mars into a biodome directly, scientists have suggested the [[cyanobacteria]] [[Chroococcidiopsis]].<ref name="ReferenceB">{{Cite web|url=https://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2001/ast26jan_1/|title=Greening of the Red Planet {{!}} Science Mission Directorate|website=science.nasa.gov|language=en|access-date=2018-01-14}}</ref> This would help convert the regolith into soil by creating an organic element.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> That bacteria is known to survive in extremely cold and dry conditions on Earth, so might provide a basis for bioengineering Mars into a more habitable place.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> As the bacteria reproduces the dead ones would create an organic layer in the regolith potentially paving the way for more advanced life.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |
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A study published in 2016 showed that crypto[[endolith]]<nowiki/>ic [[Fungus|fungi]] survived for 18 months in simulated Mars conditions.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Science/2016/0128/Could-fungi-survive-on-Mars|title=Could fungi survive on Mars?|date=2016-01-28|work=Christian Science Monitor|access-date=2018-01-20|issn=0882-7729}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal| |
A study published in 2016 showed that crypto[[endolith]]<nowiki/>ic [[Fungus|fungi]] survived for 18 months in simulated Mars conditions.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Science/2016/0128/Could-fungi-survive-on-Mars|title=Could fungi survive on Mars?|date=2016-01-28|work=Christian Science Monitor|access-date=2018-01-20|issn=0882-7729}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Onofri|first1=Silvano|last2=de Vera|first2=Jean-Pierre|last3=Zucconi|first3=Laura|last4=Selbmann|first4=Laura|last5=Scalzi|first5=Giuliano|last6=Venkateswaran|first6=Kasthuri J.|last7=Rabbow|first7=Elke|last8=de la Torre|first8=Rosa|last9=Horneck|first9=Gerda|date=2015-12-01|title=Survival of Antarctic Cryptoendolithic Fungi in Simulated Martian Conditions On Board the International Space Station|journal=Astrobiology|volume=15|issue=12|pages=1052–1059|doi=10.1089/ast.2015.1324|pmid=26684504|issn=1531-1074|bibcode=2015AsBio..15.1052O}}</ref> |
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⚫ | [[Image:Paranal residencia.jpg|thumb|Interior of the [[ESO Hotel]] which has been called a "boarding house on Mars", because the desert surroundings are Mars-like; it houses observatory staff at an observatory in the high Chilean desert.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://bayferrox.com/uploads/tx_lxsmatrix/CCW_Case-Study_ESO-Hotel-CL_de_en_2009_03.pdf|title = Bayferrox}}</ref> ]] |
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On Earth, plants that utilize the C4 photosynthesis reaction account for 3% of flowering plant species but 23% of carbon that is fixed, and includes species popular for human consumption including [[maize|corn (aka maize)]] and [[sugar cane]]; certain types of plants may be more productive at producing food for a given amount of light.<ref>{{Cite journal|date=2013-07-22|title=C4 photosynthesis|journal=Current Biology|language=en|volume=23|issue=14|pages=R594–R599|doi=10.1016/j.cub.2013.04.066|pmid=23885869|issn=0960-9822|last1=Kellogg|first1=Elizabeth A.}}</ref> Plants noted for colonizing the barren landscape in the aftermath of the Mt Saint Helen's eruption included [[Asteraceae]] and [[Epilobium]], and especially [[Lupinus lepidus]] for its (symbiotic) ability to fix its own nitrogen.<ref>{{Cite journal| |
On Earth, plants that utilize the C4 photosynthesis reaction account for 3% of flowering plant species but 23% of carbon that is fixed, and includes species popular for human consumption including [[maize|corn (aka maize)]] and [[sugar cane]]; certain types of plants may be more productive at producing food for a given amount of light.<ref>{{Cite journal|date=2013-07-22|title=C4 photosynthesis|journal=Current Biology|language=en|volume=23|issue=14|pages=R594–R599|doi=10.1016/j.cub.2013.04.066|pmid=23885869|issn=0960-9822|last1=Kellogg|first1=Elizabeth A.|doi-access=free}}</ref> Plants noted for colonizing the barren landscape in the aftermath of the Mt Saint Helen's eruption included [[Asteraceae]] and [[Epilobium]], and especially [[Lupinus lepidus]] for its (symbiotic) ability to fix its own nitrogen.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=del Moral|first1=Roger|last2=Wood|first2=David M.|date=1993|title=Early Primary Succession on the Volcano Mount St. Helens|journal=Journal of Vegetation Science|volume=4|issue=2|pages=223–234|doi=10.2307/3236108|jstor=3236108|bibcode=1993JVegS...4..223D |s2cid=32291877}}</ref> [[Rhizobia]] bacteria are capable of [[Nitrogen fixation|fixing nitrogen]]. |
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==In- |
==In-situ resources== |
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⚫ | [[File:Colonization of Mars.jpg|thumb|left|Pine trees have been suggested, in combination with other techniques for creating more hospitable atmosphere on Mars.<ref name="scienceillustrated.com.au">{{Cite web|url=http://scienceillustrated.com.au/blog/science/a-new-era/|title = A new era (Dreaming of Mars, part 3) |work=Science Illustrated |date=August 6, 2012}}</ref>]] |
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⚫ | |||
⚫ | In situ [[In situ resource utilization|resource utilization]] involves using materials encountered on Mars to produce materials needed. One idea for supporting a Mars habitat is to extract subterranean water, which, with sufficient power, could then be split into hydrogen and oxygen, with the intention of mixing the oxygen with nitrogen and argon for breathable air. The hydrogen can be combined with carbon dioxide to make plastics or methane for rocket fuel.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/01/tech/mars-life-support-system-study/|title=Breathing perfect air on Mars is possible, study says |first=Ben |last=Brumfield|work=CNN |date=July 1, 2015 |access-date=2018-01-20}}</ref> Iron has also been suggested as a building material for 3D printed Mars habitats.<ref name=dezsfero/> |
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⚫ | |||
⚫ | In situ [[In situ resource utilization|resource utilization]] involves using materials encountered on Mars to produce materials needed. One idea for supporting a Mars habitat is to extract subterranean water, which with sufficient power could then be split into hydrogen and oxygen, with the intention of mixing the oxygen with nitrogen and argon for breathable air. The hydrogen can be combined with carbon dioxide to make plastics or methane for rocket fuel.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/01/tech/mars-life-support-system-study/|title=Breathing perfect air on Mars is possible, study says |
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In the 2010s the idea of using in-situ water to build an ice for protection from radiation and temperature, etc. appeared in designs.<ref name="Gillard"/> |
In the 2010s the idea of using in-situ water to build an ice shield for protection from radiation and temperature, etc. appeared in designs.<ref name="Gillard"/> |
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A material processing plant would use Mars resources to reduce reliance on Earth provided material.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/multimedia/artgallery/art_feature_004_C91-8781.html|title=NASA - Multifunction Mars Base|last=Bossinas|first=Les|website=www.nasa.gov|language=en|access-date=2018-02-21}}</ref> |
A material processing plant would use Mars resources to reduce reliance on Earth provided material.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/multimedia/artgallery/art_feature_004_C91-8781.html|title=NASA - Multifunction Mars Base|last=Bossinas|first=Les|website=www.nasa.gov|language=en|access-date=2018-02-21}}</ref> |
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The planned [[Mars 2020]] mission includes [[Mars Oxygen ISRU Experiment]] (MOXIE) which would convert Mars carbon dioxide into oxygen. |
The planned [[Mars 2020]] mission includes [[Mars Oxygen ISRU Experiment]] (MOXIE), which would convert Mars carbon dioxide into oxygen. |
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To convert the whole of Mars into a habitat, increased |
To convert the whole of Mars into a habitat, increased air could come from vaporizing materials in the planet.<ref name="scienceillustrated.com.au"/> In time lichen and moss might be established, and then eventually pine trees.<ref name="scienceillustrated.com.au"/> |
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⚫ | |||
There is |
There is a theory to make rocket fuel on Mars, by the [[Sabatier reaction|Sabatier process]].<ref name="scienceillustrated.com.au"/> In this process hydrogen and carbon dioxide are used to make methane and water.<ref name="scienceillustrated.com.au"/> In the next step, the water is split into hydrogen and oxygen, with the oxygen and methane being used for a Methane-Oxygen rocket engine, and the hydrogen could be re-used.<ref name="scienceillustrated.com.au"/> This process requires a large input of energy, so an appropriate power source would be needed in addition to the reactants.<ref name="scienceillustrated.com.au"/> |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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*[http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/son/habitat/sealed/F_Living_in_a_Sealed_Container_prt.htm Life in a sealed container – NASA (2010)] |
*[http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/son/habitat/sealed/F_Living_in_a_Sealed_Container_prt.htm Life in a sealed container – NASA (2010)] |
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*[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/picture-galleries/11896687/Top-10-Mars-habitats-from-NASA-space-habitat-challenge.html?frame=3456038 Telegraph Photo Gallery of Mars Habitats] |
*[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/picture-galleries/11896687/Top-10-Mars-habitats-from-NASA-space-habitat-challenge.html?frame=3456038 Telegraph Photo Gallery of Mars Habitats] |
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*[http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/images/exploration/xhab/html/jsc2011e056018.html Habitat Demonstration Unit (NASA)] |
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20111203010815/http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/images/exploration/xhab/html/jsc2011e056018.html Habitat Demonstration Unit (NASA)] |
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*[http://www.spacearchitect.org/pubs/NASA-CR-189985.pdf Mars Habitat NASA-CR-189985] (.pdf) |
*[http://www.spacearchitect.org/pubs/NASA-CR-189985.pdf Mars Habitat NASA-CR-189985] (.pdf) |
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*[http://www.marsicehouse.com/ Mars Ice House by SEArch and Clouds AO project site] |
*[http://www.marsicehouse.com/ Mars Ice House by SEArch and Clouds AO project site] |
Latest revision as of 01:09, 3 September 2024
A Mars habitat is a hypothetical place where humans could live on Mars.[2][3] Mars habitats would have to contend with surface conditions that include almost no oxygen in the air, extreme cold, low pressure, and high radiation.[4] Alternatively, the habitat might be placed underground, which helps solve some problems but creates new difficulties.[5]
One challenge is the extreme cost of transporting building materials to the Martian surface, which by the 2010s was estimated to be about US$2 million per brick.[6] While the gravity on Mars is lower than that on Earth, there are stronger solar radiation and temperature cycles, and high internal forces needed for pressurized habitats to contain air.[7]
To contend with these constraints, architects have worked to understand the right balance between in-situ materials and construction, and ex-situ to Mars.[8] For example, one idea is to use the locally available regolith to shield against radiation exposure, and another idea is to use transparent ice to allow non-harmful light to enter the habitat.[8] Mars habitat design can also involve the study of local conditions, including pressures, temperatures, and local materials, especially water.[8]
Overview
[edit]Significant challenges for Mars habitats are maintaining an artificial environment and shielding from intense solar radiation. Humans require a pressurized environment at all times and protection from the toxic Martian atmosphere. Connecting habitats is useful, as moving between separate structures requires a pressure suit or perhaps a Mars rover. One of the largest issues lies in simply getting to Mars, which means escaping Earth's atmosphere, sustaining the journey to Mars, and finally landing on the surface of Mars. One helpful aspect is the Mars atmosphere, which allows for aerobraking, meaning less need for using propellant to slow a craft for safe landing. However, the amount of energy required to transfer material to the surface of Mars is an additional task beyond simply getting into orbit. During the late 1960s, the United States produced the Saturn V rocket, which was capable of launching enough mass into orbit required for a single-launch trip holding a crew of three to the surface of the Moon and back again. This feat required a number of specially designed pieces of hardware and the development of a technique known as the Lunar Orbit Rendezvous. The Lunar Orbit Rendezvous was a plan to coordinate the descent and ascent vehicles for a rendezvous in Lunar orbit. Referring to Mars, a similar technique would require a Mars Excursion Module, which combines a crewed descent-ascent vehicle and short stay surface habitat. Later plans have separated the descent-ascent vehicle and surface habitat, which further developed into separate descent, surface stay, and ascent vehicles using a new design architecture. In 2010 the Space Launch System, or growth variants therefore, is envisioned as having the payload capacity and qualities needed for human Mars missions, utilizing the Orion capsule.
One of the challenges for Mars habitats is maintaining the climate, especially the right temperature in the right places.[9] Electronic devices and lights generate heat that rises in the air, even as there are extreme temperature fluctuations outside.[9][10]
One idea for a Mars habitat is to use a Martian cave or lava tube, and an inflatable air-lock was proposed by Caves of Mars Project for making use of such a structure.[11] The idea of living in lava tubes has been suggested for their potential to provide increased protection from radiation, temperature fluctuation, Martian sunlight, etc.[12] An advantage of living underground is that it avoids the need to create a radiation shield above ground.[13] Another idea is to use robots to construct the base in advance of human's arrival.[13]
The use of living plants or other living biologicals to aid in the air and food supply if desired can have major impact on the design.[14] An example of how engineering demands and operational goals can interact, is a reduced-pressure greenhouse area. This would reduce the structural demands of maintaining air pressure, but require the relevant plants to survive at that lower pressure. Taken to an extreme, the question remains just how a low a pressure could a plant survive in and still be useful.[14]
A Mars habitat may need to focus on keeping a certain type of plant alive, for example, as part of supporting its inhabitants.[15] NASA's Caves of Mars study suggested the following food and food production characteristics:[15]
The study noted two plants, duckweed (Lemna minor) and water fern (Azolla filiculoides), as particularly suitable, and they grow on the surface of water.[16] The Mars habitat would have to support the conditions of these food sources, possibly incorporating elements from greenhouse design or farming.
Historically, space missions tend to have a non-growing food supply eating out of set amount of rations like Skylab, replenished with resupply from Earth. Using plants to affect the atmosphere and even enhance food supply was experimented with the 2010s aboard the International Space Station.
Another issue is waste management. On Skylab all waste was put in a big tank; on Apollo and the Space Shuttle urine could be vented out into space or pushed away in bags to re-enter Earth's atmosphere.
Considerations for maintaining the environment in a closed system included, removal of carbon dioxide, maintaining air pressure, supply of oxygen, temperature and humidity, and stopping fires. Another issue with closed system is keeping it free from contamination from emissions from different materials, dust, or smoke. One concern on Mars is the effect of the fine dust of the Martian soil working its way into the living quarters or devices. The dust is very fine and accumulates on solar panels, amongst other surfaces.[17]
Relevant technologies
[edit]Some possible areas of needed technology or expertise:
- 3D Printing
- Mars atmospheric entry
- Caves of Mars Project
- Mars Excursion Module
- Aerospace engineering
- Space capsule
- Plants in space
Context
[edit]A Mars habitat is often conceived as part of an ensemble of Mars base and infrastructure technologies.[18] Some examples include Mars EVA suits, Mars rover, aircraft, landers, storage tanks, communication structures, mining, and Mars-movers (e.g. Earth-moving equipment).[18]
A Mars habitat might exist in the context of a human expedition, outpost, or colony on Mars.[19]
Air
[edit]In creating a habitat for people, some considerations are maintaining the right air temperature, the right air pressure, and the composition of that atmosphere.
While it is possible for humans to breathe pure oxygen, a pure oxygen atmosphere was implicated in the Apollo 1 fire. As such, Mars habitats may have a need for additional gases. One possibility is to take nitrogen and argon from the atmosphere of Mars; however, they are hard to separate from each other.[20] As a result, a Mars habitat may use 40% argon, 40% nitrogen, and 20% oxygen.[20] See also Argox, for the argon breathing gas mixture used in scuba diving
A concept to scrub CO2 from the breathing air is to use re-usable amine bead carbon dioxide scrubbers.[21] While one carbon dioxide scrubber filters the astronaut's air, the other can vent scrubbed CO2 to the Mars atmosphere, once that process is completed another one can be used, and the one that was used can take a break.[22]
One unique structural force that Mars habitats must contend with if pressurized to Earth's atmosphere, is the force of air on the inside walls.[7] This has been estimated at over 2,000 pounds per square foot (9,800 kg/m2) for a pressurized habitat on the surface of Mars, which is radically increased compared to Earth structures.[7] A closer comparison can be made to crewed high-altitude aircraft, which must withstand forces of 1,100 to 1,400 pounds per square foot (5,400 to 6,800 kg/m2) when at altitude.[7]
At about 150 thousand feet of altitude (28 miles (45 km)) on Earth, the atmospheric pressure starts to be equivalent to the surface of Mars.[23]
Location | Pressure |
---|---|
Olympus Mons summit | 0.03 kPa (0.0044 psi) |
Mars average | 0.6 kPa (0.087 psi) |
Hellas Planitia bottom | 1.16 kPa (0.168 psi) |
Armstrong limit | 6.25 kPa (0.906 psi) |
Mount Everest summit[24] | 33.7 kPa (4.89 psi) |
Earth sea level | 101.3 kPa (14.69 psi) |
Surface of Venus[25] | 9,200 kPa (1,330 psi) |
Temperature
[edit]One of the challenges for a Mars habitat is for it to maintain suitable temperatures in the right places in a habitat.[9] Things like electronics and lights generate heat that rises in the air, even as there are extreme temperature fluctuation outside.[9][26] There can be large temperature swings on Mars, for example at the equator it may reach 70 degrees F (20 degrees C) in the daytime but then go down to minus 100 degrees F (−73 C) at night.[27]
Examples of Mars surface temperatures:[27]
- Average −80 degrees Fahrenheit (−60 degrees Celsius).
- Polar locations in winter −195 degrees F (−125 degrees C).
- Equator in summer daytime High 70 degrees F (20 degrees C)
Temporary vs permanent habitation
[edit]A short term stay on the surface of Mars does not require a habitat to have a large volume or complete shielding from radiation. The situation would be similar to the International Space Station, where individuals receive an unusually high amount of radiation for a short duration and then leave.[28] A small and light habitat can be transported to Mars and used immediately.
Long term permanent habitats require much more volume (i.e.:greenhouse) and thick shielding to minimize the annual dose of radiation received. This type of habitat is too large and heavy to be sent to Mars, and must be constructed making use of some local resources. Possibilities include covering structures with ice or soil, excavating subterranean spaces or sealing the ends of an existing lava tube.[29]
A larger settlement may be able to have a larger medical staff, increasing the ability to deal with health issues and emergencies.[19] Whereas a small expedition of 4–6 may be able to have 1 medical doctor, an outpost of 20 might be able to have more than one and nurses, in addition to those with emergency or paramedic training.[19] A full settlement may be able to achieve the same level of care as a contemporary Earth hospital.[19]
Medical
[edit]One problem for medical care on Mars missions, is the difficulty in returning to Earth for advanced care, and providing adequate emergency care with a small crew size.[19] A crew of six might have only one crew member trained to the level of emergency medical technician and one physician, but for a mission that would last years.[19] In addition, consultations with Earth would be hampered by a 7 to 40 minute time lag.[19] Medical risks include exposure to radiation and reduced gravity, and one deadly risk is a Solar Particle Event that can generate a lethal dose over the course of several hours or days if the astronauts do not have enough shielding.[19] Materials testing has recently been done to explore spacesuits and "storm shelters" for protection from Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GRC) and Solar Particle Events (SPE's) during launch, transit, and habitation upon Mars.[30] Medical preparedness also requires that the effect of radiation on stored pharmaceuticals and medical technology would have to be taken into account as well.[19]
One of the medical supplies that may be needed is intravenous fluid, which is mostly water but contains other things so it can be added directly to the blood stream. If it can be created on the spot from existing water then it could spare the weight of hauling earth-produced units, whose weight is mostly water.[31] A prototype for this capability was tested on the International Space Station in 2010.[31]
On some of the first crewed missions, three types of medications that were taken into orbit; the antiemetic trimethobenzamide; the painkiller pethidine; the stimulant dextroamphetamine.[32] By the time of ISS, space crew-persons had almost 200 medications available, with separate pill cabinets for Russians and Americans.[32] One of the many concerns for crewed Mars missions is what pills to bring and how the astronauts would respond to them in different conditions.[32]
In 1999, NASA's Johnson Space Center published Medical Aspects of Exploration Missions as part of the Decadal Survey.[19] On a small mission it might be possible to have one be a medical doctor and another be a paramedic, out of a crew of perhaps 4–6 people, however on a larger mission with 20 people there could also be a nurse and options like minor surgery might be possible.[19] Two major categories for space would be emergency medical care and then more advanced care, dealing with a wide range concerns due to space-travel.[19] For very small crews its difficult to treat a wide range issues with advanced care, whereas with a team with an overall size of 12–20 on Mars there could be multiple doctors and nurses, in addition to EMT-level certifications.[19] While not at the level of a typical Earth hospital this would transition medical are beyond basic options typical of very small crew sizes (2–3) where the accepted risk is higher.[19]
With a modest number of Mars inhabitants and medical crew, robot-assisted surgery could be considered. A crew member would operate the robot with help via telecommunications from Earth.[33] Two examples of medical-care situations that have been mentioned in regard to people on Mars is how to deal with a broken leg and an appendicitis.[33] One concern is to stop what would otherwise be a minor injury from becoming life-threatening due to restrictions on the amount of medical equipment, training, and the time-delay in communication with Earth.[33] The time delay for a one way message ranges from 4 to 24 minutes, depending.[34] A response to a message takes that time, the delay processing the message and creating a reply, plus the time for that message to travel to Mars (another 4 to 24 minutes).[34]
Examples of acute medical emergency scenarios for Mars missions:[19]
- Wounds, lacerations, and burns
- Exposure to a toxin
- Acute allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
- Acute radiation sickness
- Dental
- Eye (Ophthalmologic)
- Psychiatric
An example of spaceflight related health emergency was the inert gas asphyxiation with nitrogen gas aboard Space Shuttle Columbia in 1981, when it was undergoing preparations for its launch [35] In that case, a routine purge with nitrogen to decrease risk of fire lead to 5 medical emergencies and 2 deaths.[35] Another infamous space related accident is the Apollo 1 incident, when a pure oxygen atmosphere ignited in the interior of space capsule during tests on the ground, three died.[36] A 1997 study of about 280 space travelers between 1988 and 1995, found that only 3 did not have some sort of medical issue on their spaceflight.[37] A medical risk for a Mars surface mission is how the astronauts will handle operations on the surface after several months in zero gravity.[37] On Earth, astronauts are usually carted from the spacecraft and take a long time to recover.[37]
See Space medicine
Library
[edit]One idea for a Mars missions is a library sent to the surface of that planet.[38] The Phoenix lander, which landed on the North polar surface of Mars in 2008, included a DVD library that was heralded as the first library on Mars.[38] The Phoenix library DVD would be taken by future explorers who could access the content on the disk.[38] The disc, both a memorial to the past and a message to the future, took 15 years to produce.[38] The content on the disc includes Visions of Mars.[38] One idea for exploration is knowledge arks for space, a sort of back-up of knowledge in case something happens to Earth.[39]
The Biodome 2 spaceflight and closed-loop biosphere test included a library with the living quarters.[40] The library was positioned at the top of a tower, and known as Library tower.[40][41]
Meteor impacts
[edit]Another consideration for Mars habitats, especially for long-term stay, is the need to potentially deal with a meteor impact.[42][7] Because the atmosphere is thinner, more meteors make it to the surface. So, one concern is that a meteor might puncture the surface of the habitat and thereby cause a loss of pressure and/or damage systems.[42][7]
In the 2010s it was determined that something struck the surface of Mars, creating a spattering pattern of larger and smaller craters between 2008 and 2014.[43] In this case the atmosphere only partially disintegrated the meteor before it struck the surface.[42]
Radiation
[edit]Radiation exposure is a concern for astronauts even on the surface, as Mars lacks a strong magnetic field, and atmosphere is too thin to stop as much radiation as Earth. However, the planet does reduce the radiation significantly especially on the surface, and it is not detected to be radioactive itself.
It has been estimated that sixteen feet (5 meters) of Mars regolith stops the same amount of radiation as Earth's atmosphere.[44]
Power
[edit]For a 500-day crewed Mars mission NASA has studied using solar power and nuclear power for its base, as well as power storage systems (e.g. batteries).[45] Some of the challenges for solar power include a reduction in solar intensity (because Mars is farther from the sun), dust accumulation, periodic dust storms, and storing power for night-time use.[45] Global Mars dust storms cause lower temperatures and reduce sunlight reaching the surface.[45] Two ideas for overcoming this are to use an additional array deployed during a dust storm and to use some nuclear power to provide base-line power that is not affected by the storms.[45] NASA has studied nuclear-power fission systems in the 2010s for Mars surface missions.[46] One design planned an output of 40 kilowatts; nuclear power fission is independent of sunlight reaching the surface of Mars, which can be affected by dust storms.[46][47]
Another idea for power is to beam the power to the surface from a solar power satellite to a rectifying antenna (aka rectenna) receiver.[48] 245 GHz, laser, in-situ rectenna construction, and 5.8 GHz designs have been studied.[49] One idea is combine this technology with Solar Electric Propulsion to achieve a lower mass than surface solar power.[49] The big advantage of this approach to power is that the rectennas should be immune to dust and weather changes, and with the right orbit, a solar power Mars satellite could beam power down continuously to the surface.[49]
Technology to clean dust off the solar panels was considered for Mars Exploration Rover's development.[50] In the 21st century ways have been proposed for cleaning off solar panels on the surface of Mars.[51] The effects of Martian surface dust on solar cells was studied in the 1990s by the Materials Adherence Experiment on Mars Pathfinder.[52][53][54]
Name | Main Power |
---|---|
Viking 1 & 2 | Nuclear – RTG |
Mars Pathfinder | Solar panels |
MER A & B | Solar panels |
Phoenix | Solar panels |
MSL | Nuclear – RTG |
History
[edit]One early idea for a Mars habitat was to use put short stay accommodation in a Mars ascent-descent vehicle. This combination was called a Mars Excursion Module, and also typically featured other components such as basic rover and science equipment. Later missions tended to shift to a dedicated descent/ascent with a separate habitat.
In 2013 ZA architects proposed having digging robots build a Mars habitat underground.[5] They chose an interior inspired by Fingal's Cave and noted the increased protection from high-energy radiation below ground.[5] On the other hand, the issue of the difficulty of sending digging robots that must construct the habitat versus landing capsules on the surface was also noted.[5] An alternative may be to build above ground using thick ice to shield from radiation. This approach has the advantage of allowing light in.[3]
In 2015 the Self-deployable Habitat for Extreme Environments (SHEE) project explored the idea of autonomous construction and preparation for Mars habitat versus human construction, because the latter is "risky, complex, and costly."[55]
NASA
[edit]In early 2015 NASA outlined a conceptual plan for a three stage Mars habitat design and construction award program.[56] The first stage called for a design. The next stage requested plans for construction technology that used discarded spacecraft components. The third stage involved building a habitat using 3D printing technology.[56]
In September 2015, NASA announced the winners of its 3-D Printed Habitat Challenge.[57] The winning submission titled 'Mars Ice House'[58] by Clouds Architecture Office / SEArch proposed a 3D-printed double ice shell surrounding a lander module core.[3] Two European teams were awarded runner up prizes.[57] The contenders explored many possibilities for materials, with one suggesting separately refining iron and silica from the Martian dust and using the iron to make a lattice-work filled in with silica panels.[59] There were 30 finalists selected from an initial pool of 165 entries in the habitat challenge.[60] The second-place winner proposed the printing robots build a shield out of in-situ materials around inflatable modules.[61]
Other NASA projects that have developed extraterrestrial surface habitats are the X-Hab challenge and the Habitation Systems Project.[62][63]
The Sfero House by Fabulous, also a contender in the 3D Mars Habitat program, featured levels above and below ground.[64] The proposed location was Gale crater (of Curiosity rover fame) with a focus on using both in-situ iron and water, which would hopefully be available there.[64] It has a double-walled spherical design filled with water to both keep the higher pressure of Mars habitat in but help protect against radiation.[64]
In 2016, NASA awarded the first prize of its In-Situ Materials Challenge to University of Southern California engineering professor Behrokh Khoshnevis "for Selective Separation Sintering -- a 3D-printing process that makes use of powder-like materials found on Mars."[65]
In 2016 NASA Langley showed the Mars Ice Home, which used in-situ water to make an ice structure conceptually similar to an iglo, as part of the design of a Mars habitat.[67]
In June 2018, NASA selected the top ten finalists of Phase 3: Level 1 in the 3D-Printed Habitat Challenge.[68]
Phase 3: Level 1 Winners:[68]
- ALPHA Team – Marina Del Rey, California
- Colorado School of Mines and ICON – Golden, Colorado
- Hassell & EOC – San Francisco, California
- Kahn-Yates – Jackson, Mississippi
- Mars Incubator – New Haven, Connecticut
- AI. SpaceFactory – New York, New York
- Northwestern University – Evanston, Illinois
- SEArch+/Apis Cor – New York, New York
- Team Zopherus – Rogers, Arkansas
- X-Arc – San Antonio, Texas
In May 2019, NASA announced that the top winner of the 3D Printed Habitat Challenge was from AI SpaceFactory, with an entry called "Marsha," and there was several other prizes awarded also.[69] In the final challenge contestants had 30 hours to build 1/3 scale models using robotic construction technology.[69]
Mars analogs and analog habitat studies
[edit]Mock Mars missions or Mars analog missions typically construct terrestrial habitats on Earth and conduct mock missions, taking steps to solve some of the problems that could be faced on Mars.[70] An example of this was the original mission of Biosphere 2, which was meant to test closed ecological systems to support and maintain human life in outer space.[71] Biosphere 2 tested several people living in a closed loop biological system, with several biological support areas including rainforest, savannah, ocean, desert, marsh, agriculture, and a living space.[72]
An example of Mars analog comparison mission is HI-SEAS of the 2010s. Other Mars analog studies include Mars Desert Research Station and Arctic Mars Analog Svalbard Expedition.
- Australia Mars Analog Research Station
- Flashline Mars Arctic Research Station
- MARS-500
- Concordia Station
The ISS has also been described as a predecessor to Mars expedition, and in relation to a Mars habitat the study importance and nature of operation a closed system was noted.[73]
At about 28 miles (45 km, 150 thousand feet ) Earth altitude the pressure starts to be equivalent to Mars surface pressure.[23]
An example of regolith simulant is Martian regolith simulant (further information about Mars analogs List of Mars analogs)
Biodomes
[edit]One example concept that is or is in support of habitat is a Mars biodome, a structure that could hold life generating needed oxygen and food for humans.[74] An example of activity in support of this goals, was a program to develop bacteria that could convert the Martian regolith or ice into oxygen.[74] Some issues with biodomes are the rate at which gas leaks out and the level of oxygen and other gases inside it.[72]
One question for Biodomes is how low the pressure could be lowered to, and the plants still be useful.[14] In one study where air pressure was lowered to 1/10 of Earth's air pressure at the surface, the plants had a higher rate of evaporation from its leaves.[14] This triggered the plant to think there was drought, despite it having a steady supply of water.[14] An example of a crop NASA tested growing at lower pressure is lettuce, and in another test green beans were grown at a standard air pressure, but in low Earth orbit inside the International Space Station.[75]
The DLR found that some lichen and bacteria could survive in simulated Martian conditions, including air composition, pressure, and solar radiation spectrum.[76] The Earth organisms survived for over 30 days under Mars conditions, and while it was not known if they would survive beyond this, it was noted they seemed to be performing photosynthesis under those conditions.[76]
To convert the entirety of Mars into a biodome directly, scientists have suggested the cyanobacteria Chroococcidiopsis.[77] This would help convert the regolith into soil by creating an organic element.[77] That bacteria is known to survive in extremely cold and dry conditions on Earth, so might provide a basis for bioengineering Mars into a more habitable place.[77] As the bacteria reproduces the dead ones would create an organic layer in the regolith potentially paving the way for more advanced life.[77]
A study published in 2016 showed that cryptoendolithic fungi survived for 18 months in simulated Mars conditions.[78][79]
On Earth, plants that utilize the C4 photosynthesis reaction account for 3% of flowering plant species but 23% of carbon that is fixed, and includes species popular for human consumption including corn (aka maize) and sugar cane; certain types of plants may be more productive at producing food for a given amount of light.[81] Plants noted for colonizing the barren landscape in the aftermath of the Mt Saint Helen's eruption included Asteraceae and Epilobium, and especially Lupinus lepidus for its (symbiotic) ability to fix its own nitrogen.[82] Rhizobia bacteria are capable of fixing nitrogen.
In-situ resources
[edit]In situ resource utilization involves using materials encountered on Mars to produce materials needed. One idea for supporting a Mars habitat is to extract subterranean water, which, with sufficient power, could then be split into hydrogen and oxygen, with the intention of mixing the oxygen with nitrogen and argon for breathable air. The hydrogen can be combined with carbon dioxide to make plastics or methane for rocket fuel.[84] Iron has also been suggested as a building material for 3D printed Mars habitats.[64]
In the 2010s the idea of using in-situ water to build an ice shield for protection from radiation and temperature, etc. appeared in designs.[67]
A material processing plant would use Mars resources to reduce reliance on Earth provided material.[85]
The planned Mars 2020 mission includes Mars Oxygen ISRU Experiment (MOXIE), which would convert Mars carbon dioxide into oxygen.
To convert the whole of Mars into a habitat, increased air could come from vaporizing materials in the planet.[83] In time lichen and moss might be established, and then eventually pine trees.[83]
There is a theory to make rocket fuel on Mars, by the Sabatier process.[83] In this process hydrogen and carbon dioxide are used to make methane and water.[83] In the next step, the water is split into hydrogen and oxygen, with the oxygen and methane being used for a Methane-Oxygen rocket engine, and the hydrogen could be re-used.[83] This process requires a large input of energy, so an appropriate power source would be needed in addition to the reactants.[83]
See also
[edit]- Crewed Mars rover – Mars rovers transporting people, has some of the same requirements as habitats
- Climate of Mars
- Colonization of Mars – Proposed concepts for human settlements on Mars
- Health threat from cosmic rays – Cancer causing exposure to ionizing radiation in spaceflight
- List of Mars analogs
- Mars analog habitat – Research simulating the environment on Mars
- Martian lava tube – Volcanic caverns on Mars, believed to form as a result of fast-moving basaltic lava flows
- Space architecture#Martian – Architecture of off-planet habitable structures
- ISS ECLSS – Life support system for the International Space Station (International Space Station life support system)
- List of artificial objects on Mars
- Mars Excursion Module – Proposed NASA spacecraft
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Further reading
[edit]- Human utilization of subsurface extraterrestrial environments (2002 NIAC Paper on living underground on Mars)
- Human Utilization of Subsurface Extraterrestrial Environments
- 30 concepts for 3D printed habs
- Plants for food in space
- First Mars Habitat Architecture (AIAA-2015-4517) (reviews various Mars habs and technology, 2015]
- Living off the land (in space) (Podcast transcript, July 27, 2018, NASA Johnson Space Center)
External links
[edit]- Life in a sealed container – NASA (2010)
- Telegraph Photo Gallery of Mars Habitats
- Habitat Demonstration Unit (NASA)
- Mars Habitat NASA-CR-189985 (.pdf)
- Mars Ice House by SEArch and Clouds AO project site
- Human health and radiation report (October 2015) (NASA)
- Norman and Fosters 3d printed Mars habitat design
- NASA Ames Mars Habitat images