AbstractMars is a compelling astrobiological target, and a human mission would provide an opportunity to collect immense amounts of scientific data. Exploration alone, however, cannot justify the increased risk. Instead, three factors drive a human mission: economics, education, and exploration. A human 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 a human 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 a human mission to Mars is a political decision, and thus, educational and economic benefits are the crucial factors.


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    Title :

    Humans to Mars: A feasibility and cost–benefit analysis



    Published in:

    Acta Astronautica ; 56 , 9-12 ; 851-858


    Publication date :

    2005-01-01


    Size :

    8 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English




    Humans to Mars: A feasibility and cost-benefit analysis

    Ehlmann, B. L. / Chowdhury, J. / Marzullo, T. C. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2005


    Humans to Mars: A feasibility and cost-benefit analysis

    Ehlmann, B. L. / Chowdhury, J. / Marzullo, T. C. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2005


    Humans to Mars: A feasibility and cost#8211benefit analysis

    Ehlmann, Bethany L. | Online Contents | 2005