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Preparing for Mars: Challenges and Opportunities in Space Exploration

Explore the logistical complications on the journey to Mars, from cost estimates to crafting rockets for the mission. Delve into potential obstacles like distance, supply needs, nuclear propulsion, and human risks such as cabin fever. Learn about past experiences in space travel and the necessity of establishing a permanent settlement on Mars. Discover the complexities of returning to Earth and safeguarding both planets from potential contamination.

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Preparing for Mars: Challenges and Opportunities in Space Exploration

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  1. This......is...MARS! Logistical problems on the journey to the Red Planet

  2. First (firm) steps • President Bush • January, 2004. Promised that America will take steps toward a human mission to Mars. • NASA estimates put the cost anywhere between 50 – 400 billion

  3. Great Undertaking • It will be our greatest scientific / engineering undertaking ever • There will be casualties • No ship can make it right now • Especially from Mars

  4. Distance problems 18 months on surface Short hop vs. Long stay 1500 – 2000x farther away than the Moon

  5. Packin’ on the pounds! • All the “stuff” needed weighs more than the ISS • 11,000 L H2O • 20 metric tons dehydrated food • 520,000 kilo. of supplies

  6. Uh, Rockets? • No single rocket can get all our junk there. • We’ll need to use Ares rockets to get it into LEO, perhaps 10 or more. Ares V can put 290,000 Lbs. into LEO 1,200,000 kilos solid fuel to get off the pad

  7. Baby Steps • Assemble rocket (Orion) in LEO… • Then go to Moon by 2025 and build a permanent settlement for training.

  8. “You mean this sucker is nuclear?” • Mars rocket will almost have to be nuclear. • 12 months travel time • Chemical is too heavy / lb of thrust

  9. “I gotta’ get outta’ this place!” • Greatest risk of long distance travel is cabin fever • Lots of stuff still happens on Earth • Fights with cabin mates • Capsule size of small apartment • Exercise • Boredom • Sex • Scientific Experiments • Periods of intense activity

  10. “I gotta’ get outta’ this place!” • Jerry Linenger (Born in Eastpointe, Mi!) spent 5 months aboard MIR • Lost 65% of strength • Lost 13-14% of bone mass in strength bearing areas

  11. Finally! • After dangerous landing, crews would find supply ships already there • Crews would need to set up permanent settlement to perform experiments, and protect them from radiation and temperature extremes for 18 months on planet

  12. D’oh! • Astronauts might have to deal with a long quarantine time when they get back • Protect Earth from martian bugs • Protect Astronauts from Earth bugs

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