Short Wave Should Humans Live On Mars?
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Nov 13, 2024 Kelly Weinersmith, a biologist and co-author of "A City on Mars," and Zach Weinersmith, a cartoonist, dive into the exciting yet daunting idea of living on Mars. They discuss the necessary resources for survival and the unique challenges of raising children in low gravity. As they explore what daily life might entail—like food production and governance—they also consider the ethical dilemmas of settling a new planet. Ultimately, they highlight why staying on Earth could be a wiser choice for humanity.
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Mars's Advantages
- Mars is the primary candidate for space colonization due to its relative proximity to Earth and resources.
- It possesses essential elements like carbon and accessible water, unlike the moon, making it more suitable for human life.
Dangers of Space Living
- Extended space living carries risks like bone and muscle loss, vision problems, and bacterial infections due to zero gravity.
- Limited data exists on long-term effects beyond a year, especially on diverse demographics.
Radiation Concerns
- Space radiation is different than on Earth and Martian habitats require significant shielding, likely underground.
- Current spacecraft offer insufficient protection for travel, and Mars's thin atmosphere necessitates burying habitats for radiation safety.
