Short Wave

Should Humans Live On Mars?

45 snips
Apr 21, 2025
Zach Weinersmith, a talented cartoonist and science writer, has dedicated four years to researching space settlement, co-authoring 'City on Mars' with his biologist wife, Kelly Weinersmith. Together, they dive into fascinating discussions about the feasibility of human life on Mars, examining the challenges of food production and reproduction in space. They also present compelling arguments about the harsh realities of colonizing another planet versus focusing on environmental issues here on Earth, sparking thought-provoking insights on humanity's future.
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INSIGHT

Mars Colonization Is Inevitable

  • Thousands of people are expected to colonize Mars soon, possibly within a few years.
  • Becoming a multiplanetary species is seen as essential to avoid eventual extinction events on Earth.
INSIGHT

Why Mars Beats The Moon

  • Mars is the best candidate for colonization because it's relatively close and has resources we need.
  • The moon lacks necessary carbon while Mars offers water and carbon essential for life.
INSIGHT

Zero Gravity Harms Human Body

  • Zero gravity causes rapid bone and muscle loss, motion sickness, and potentially vision issues.
  • Long-duration space travel risks unknown nerve damage and cognitive effects with little existing data.
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