NASA has introduced somewhat special applications: it is recruiting volunteers to simulate life on Mars. They will live for a year on a 150-square-meter prefabricated spacecraft located at the US space agency center in Texas. Objective: To test the physical and psychological challenges faced by astronauts on a mission on the Red Planet.
“Testing contacts left over from their own devices”
How much water, carbon dioxide or food does it take to travel to Mars? How much waste is produced? These are NASA’s key questions. According to Michael Wisso, an astronomer associated with Europe 1, the US space agency “should test the links between people leaving on their own”.
To apply, there are a few more conditions. You must be between the ages of 30 and 55 and have a degree in American Nationals and Mathematics, Physics or Engineering. All four winning candidates will live one year independently. They will only communicate with each other or with robots.
Measure what is needed for the nearest gram
Although a real trip to the red planet is not on the agenda right now, this simulation is an important step. “It is necessary to start now to calculate a certain number of things under actual operating conditions,” Michael Wisso assures. Before mentioning: “If we have a lack of oxygen or water on Mars, that would be the real problem!”
Measuring the needs of the nearby gram can help reduce the cost of future trips. They need big financial investments. Especially in time: space companies do not plan human spaceflight to Mars before 2040.
Edward Langley is a contributor to Nintendo-power.com, covering a wide range of topics including news, business, technology, entertainment, lifestyle and current affairs. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced and accessible reporting that helps readers stay informed about important developments and emerging trends. With an emphasis on accuracy, relevance and useful insights, Edward aims to provide engaging stories and practical information that matter to audiences in the UK and beyond.