Everyday scientists grow ever closer to putting a person on Mars. Currently, there are a few major factors at play that can stop this from becoming a reality.

The first is the distance. We cannot make a big enough craft to give them fuel for the entire journey because it simply isn’t safe, and the weight is just phenomenal. The thing wouldn’t get off the ground without burning all of the fuel up. They have projected that there are two ways to travel to Mars. One way is that they go for only 30 days, which is not a lot of time, and use a straight line to come back to Earth, the same way they came. Two, they stay 1.5 years and study everything to do with the planet, and return using a slingshot effect over one of the moon’s, and direct the shot towards Earth. Since the solar system won’t stop for us, the easiest way is to stay 1.5 years and gather as much data as possible. However, if they run out of fuel for option one, they will miss Earth completely as it turns around the sun. If they miss the slingshot for option two, the same thing can happen, or if the line is too direct, and they skip off our atmosphere with such force they get sent into the depths of space.

The second is the fact that, we are human. The trip would take approximately 6 months to get there. During this time, you are with the same 6 people. And this isn’t a mansion we’re talking about. You’re looking at a small pod with a tiny area for “dining” and sleeping. A major concern scientists have is the realization that someone will get cabin fever from the people they are with, the food, or the general lack of just being on Earth with family and friends. What can result? Murder. A single person eliminating their companions to Mars would be devastating not only to the project but the United States. Scientists are working in zero G environments to try and replicate foods such as peas, beans, carrots, lettuce, etc. Having fresh foods on board the craft will be a milestone, and great for mental and physical well being. Last thing you want is cold food from plastic Tupperware for 6 months (or longer depending on which route you take home).

Currently, NASA is looking at programs such as Second Life and World of Warcraft to accompany their Astronauts on a journey such as this. Looking at how the body and mind react to interactive behavior with other people, even though they are not physically able to touch them, or be with them. So far the results are good. One Astronaut said “If I could talk to my friends and family in World of Warcraft, I would be on the ship forever!”.

So to conclude it looks like the progress in the United States for the Mars missions are going well. It will be interesting to see how more scenarios play out, and maybe someday man will walk on the red planet.

Consumers, Earth, General, Politics, Science, Technology