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Published May 2005 | public
Journal Article

Humans to Mars: A feasibility and cost–benefit analysis

Abstract

Mars is a compelling astrobiological target, and ahuman mission would provide an opportunity to collect immense amounts of scientific data. Exploration alone, however, cannot justify the increased risk. Instead, three factors drive ahuman mission: economics, education, and exploration. Ahuman mission has a unique potential to inspire the next generation of young people to enter critically needed science and engineering disciplines. A mission is economically feasible, and the research and development program put in place for ahuman mission would propel growth in related high-technology industries. The main hurdles are human physiological responses to 1–2 years of radiation and microgravity exposure. However, enabling technologies are sufficiently mature in these areas that they can be developed within a few decade timescale. Hence, the decision of whether or not to undertake ahuman mission to Mars is a political decision, and thus, educational and economic benefits are the crucial factors.

Additional Information

© 2005 Elsevier Ltd. Available online 8 March 2005. We thank the staff of the Astrobiology Academy D. O'Handley, D. Lamb, and E. Schaller for their guidance during our research and initial manuscript development. The comments of R. Zimmerman were also invaluable. We are grateful to NASA and our respective state space grants for support during this project.

Additional details

Created:
August 22, 2023
Modified:
October 19, 2023