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The Red Planet: The Journey To Mars

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The Red Planet, Mars, is a rich destination for scientific discovery. For years scientists and astronauts have studied the formation and atmosphere on Mars through comparisons with Earth, in hope of one day making it habitable for humans. By the end of 2039, NASA aims to put humans on Mars and through future exploration uncover evidence of life, answering one of the “fundamental mysteries of the cosmos” . However this journey requires technology specifically designed to adjust to the alternate atmosphere on Mars. Once humans have landed, precautions must be ensured to minimize the impact of humans. But through this mission, scientists and astronauts can offer greater discoveries to humankind, more than what any robot can observe on Mars. Despite these great expectations, there are even greater consequences of space exploration.
The journey to Mars will require extraordinary technology. NASA has predicted that the trip will last approximately six to eight months each way depending on the orbits of Earth and Mars. …show more content…
The transit vehicle will consist of two propellant stages, a landing module, and a transit habitat . The landing module will be similar to the ones used for unmanned Mars missions. The transit habitat is comparable to the International Space Station, only much smaller. This area acts as temporary living quarters and recreational space for the crew. Water tanks and other storage space will be used to create a radiation shelter from extreme emissions of outer space . Upon arrival the crew will be fitted in their Mars suits which protect astronauts from the extreme temperatures and the very thin, non-breathable atmosphere of the Red Planet . The landing module will descend on the surface of Mars and form the permanent settlement on Mars (the transit habitat must be left behind due to its

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