If you've read or seen The Martian by Andy Weir, you're well aware of what it takes to survive on Mars. We would have to grow food, create water, filter the air etc. And most of the science checks out. Mars's gravity is only 40% earth's gravity, which would make it easier to move heavier things as well. Mars days are similar to Earth days, allowing animals to maintain their circadian rhythms. Mars rotates on a axis too, creating seasons just like Earth. The main downside, aside from the difficulty of surviving, is distance. Mars only lines up with earth creating a launch window every two and a half years. This makes supply transportation extremely difficult. On the other hand, Venus has a launch window of only 1.6 years. So why not Venus?
Venus is Earth's sister planet due to its similar size and gravity. Other than that, they're pretty different planets. Unlike our atmosphere and Mars's non-existent atmosphere, Venus's atmosphere is so thick, that the ground pressure is 90 times the pressure here on earth. If that doesn't kill you, then the extreme heat and cold or sulfuric acid will. Fortunately there is a bright side: HAVOC. HAVOC stands for High Altitude Operational Concept, with and emphasis on concept. Theoretically, because Venus's atmosphere is so thick, Earth's normal air is lighter. We can create "floating buildings" that float 50km above ground. At this height, the pressure and atmospheric composition is similar to Earth's. The temperature, however, is still pretty extreme.
In the end, hopefully we're able to colonize both planets. But just know that Mars is not our only option. We always have our sister to help us out as well.
Interesting blog Andrew, I never knew too much about the circumstances on either planet but I do have a feeling that we will need to inhabit a different planet sooner or later.
ReplyDeleteThis was really insightful as I know little about our solar system... With that said, I know that we'll eventually deplete the earth's resources and that it's just a matter of time so looking at these alternatives, although far fetched, is coming closer!
ReplyDeleteFloating buildings?! That would be awesome. I didn't realize that the distance of Mars from earth was such a significant problem since we always imagine life on Mars being not so far in the future.
ReplyDeleteI hope we are able to colonize both planets too! How cool would that be! Also, have you heard about the Mars expedition? They are sending people to try to colonize Mars. If you haven't seen or read it you should do so, I think you'll find it very interesting.
ReplyDeleteI started reading the novel but then decided to wait for the movie instead. Gotta say, it did not disappoint, highly encourage everyone to watch it.
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