1. Humans to Mars: a feasibility and cost-benefit analysis.
- Author
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Ehlmann BL, Chowdhury J, Marzullo TC, Collins RE, Litzenberger J, Ibsen S, Krauser WR, DeKock B, Hannon M, Kinnevan J, Shepard R, and Grant FD
- Subjects
- Aerospace Medicine, Containment of Biohazards, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Feasibility Studies, Humans, International Cooperation, Radiation Protection, Space Flight education, Spacecraft, United States, Water, Mars, Space Flight economics, United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration economics, Weightlessness
- Abstract
Mars 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., (c2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2005
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