Because
Mars is so far away, new technologies must be created in
order to ensure astronauts arrive there, and return,
safely. Because space is such a hazardous environment,
every component of a spacecraft must be precisely
engineered for maximum protection and comfort, as well
as be as light as possible, so as to cut fuel costs.
Astronauts will need food, clothing, clean water,
oxygen, and protection from the extreme cold and
radiation while in transit, as well as a suitable living
space on the surface of a hostile planet. All of this
must either be brought with them, shipped separately, or
made onsite.
The technology developed in order to facilitate such an endeavor can also be used by those of us who will never have the opportunity to make such a journey. Space exploration has been a catalyst for terrestrial technological advancement since the Soviet Union launched the first satellite in 1957. Firefighter suits are made from a flame-retardant, heat-resistant polymer originally designed for spacesuits, and their breathing equipment is also a direct descendant of spacesuit respirators. NASA invented, and is continually refining, photovoltaic cells used in solar power generation, in order to power satellite hardware (Green, 2019).
Many other techniques, products, and advancements that were pioneered by scientists and engineers for space exploration have been repurposed for terrestrial uses. A trip to Mars will require better, more efficient life-support systems, food security techniques and hardware, and radiation protection for such a long journey. Spin-off technologies will most certainly make their way into the daily life of millions of people.
The technology developed in order to facilitate such an endeavor can also be used by those of us who will never have the opportunity to make such a journey. Space exploration has been a catalyst for terrestrial technological advancement since the Soviet Union launched the first satellite in 1957. Firefighter suits are made from a flame-retardant, heat-resistant polymer originally designed for spacesuits, and their breathing equipment is also a direct descendant of spacesuit respirators. NASA invented, and is continually refining, photovoltaic cells used in solar power generation, in order to power satellite hardware (Green, 2019).
Many other techniques, products, and advancements that were pioneered by scientists and engineers for space exploration have been repurposed for terrestrial uses. A trip to Mars will require better, more efficient life-support systems, food security techniques and hardware, and radiation protection for such a long journey. Spin-off technologies will most certainly make their way into the daily life of millions of people.
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