Mars has long excited the imagination of mankind. The red planet, eternally hanging in the evening sky, has become a symbol of hopes, fears and scientific ambitions. Ever since the surface of Mars was first seen through Galileo’s telescope, the question “is there life there?” has haunted scientists, writers and dreamers. Today, this question sounds different: can humans live on Mars – and when will it become a reality?
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Why Mars?
Mars is not the closest planet to us (that title belongs to Venus), but it is considered the most suitable for colonization for several reasons:
A day on Mars lasts almost as long as on Earth (24.6 hours).
There are reserves of water in the form of ice.
Mars has seasons and an atmosphere (albeit thin).
Temperatures are lower than on Earth, but not critical – from -140°C to +20°C in the equatorial zones.
In addition, the planet’s topography resembles Earth: valleys, volcanoes, canyons, glaciers, and even possible traces of ancient rivers.
Were there signs of life on Mars?
To the question of the existence of extraterrestrial life on Mars, science so far gives a cautious but intriguing answer: perhaps it once was.
What was found:
Canals and riverbeds: orbital images indicate that water flowed on Mars billions of years ago.
Methane in the atmosphere: on Earth, its sources are mainly biological. It also appears on Mars, but its origin is still unclear.
Organic compounds: the Curiosity rover discovered traces of organic matter on the surface.
However, no direct evidence of the existence of living organisms (past or present) has yet been obtained.
Life-seeking missions
For decades, humanity has sent probes, satellites, and rovers to Mars. Each mission brings us closer to solving the mystery.
NASA Curiosity (since 2012):
Studying the geology and chemical composition of the surface. Found organic matter and traces of water.
Perseverance (2021–present):
A next-generation Mars rover. The mission is to search for signs of microbial life and collect samples for future delivery to Earth. Equipped with a drone (Ingenuity) and advanced scientific instruments.
ExoMars (jointly with ESA and Roscosmos):
Plans to launch the Rosalind Franklin rover to drill the soil to a depth of 2 meters — where it is possible to protect organic matter from radiation.
Can we live on Mars?
Technically, it is possible. Practically, it is extremely difficult.
Here is what we will have to face:
1. Atmosphere
The Martian atmosphere is 95% CO₂. Oxygen — less than 0.2%. Without a spacesuit, a person dies instantly.
2. Radiation
Mars has no magnetic field or dense atmosphere. The surface has a high level of cosmic radiation. Long-term stays will require underground shelters or thick shields.
3. Gravity
Martian gravity is only 38% of Earth’s. It is not yet known how long-term stays in such conditions will affect human health.
4. Temperature
The average temperature on Mars is -63°C. Without thermal insulation, you cannot survive.
5. Food, water, oxygen
All of this must either be brought from Earth or learned to be produced on site. Experiments like Mars Habitat and developments in growing plants in Martian soil help with this.
