Within 20 years, it might not be science fiction anymore. Private space companies and NASA have already announced that they plan to send people to Mars – NASA even said it plans to complete its objective by the 2030s!
However, it takes a lot to accomplish such a feat – and incredible people too. The longest time anyone’s ever spent in space at one time is 438 days. A trip to Mars would require multiple years just to get there. Nevermind the logistics behind creating sustainable food, water, and machinery – NASA has currently given psychologists at Michigan State University $1.3 million to develop psychological sensors that can detect and track an astronaut’s psychological health.
The Psychological Challenges of Space Travel
Psychological breaks while in space are far from unheard of. Missions have had to be cut short due to psychological issues occurring with crew members and captains in the past – and those people didn’t spend over a year in the great void. The isolation, confinement, and distance from Earth can take a significant toll on an astronaut’s mental health. The psychological strain of being away from family and friends, combined with the high-stress environment of space missions, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
The sensor isn’t all NASA is looking into either. It also handed a sizable amount to Harvard to create computerized therapists to help handle any psychological issues that may occur. There’s not much a therapist on Earth can do with a twenty-minute communication lag after all. These computerized therapists are designed to provide immediate support and intervention, offering astronauts a way to manage their mental health in real-time. The development of these technologies is crucial, as the success of long-duration space missions heavily depends on the psychological well-being of the crew.
Technological and Logistical Hurdles
Beyond psychological health, there are numerous other challenges that need to be addressed for a successful mission to Mars. One of the primary concerns is the development of sustainable life support systems. This includes creating reliable sources of food and water. NASA is exploring various methods, such as hydroponics and aquaponics, to grow food in space. These systems would allow astronauts to cultivate fresh produce, ensuring a steady supply of nutritious food during their journey.
Water recycling is another critical aspect. NASA is working on advanced filtration systems that can recycle wastewater, including urine, into clean drinking water. This technology is already being tested on the International Space Station (ISS) and will be essential for long-duration missions where resupply from Earth is not feasible.
Machinery and equipment also need to be incredibly reliable and capable of self-repair. The harsh environment of space can cause wear and tear on equipment, and having the ability to repair or replace parts is vital. NASA is investing in 3D printing technology, which allows astronauts to manufacture tools and parts on-demand, reducing the need for carrying extensive supplies.
Radiation exposure is another significant concern. Spacecraft traveling to Mars will be exposed to higher levels of cosmic radiation, which can pose serious health risks to astronauts. NASA is researching various shielding materials and strategies to protect the crew from radiation. This includes developing advanced materials that can absorb or deflect radiation and exploring the possibility of using the spacecraft’s water supply as a protective barrier.
The journey to Mars is not just a technological challenge but a human one. The success of such a mission will depend on the ability to address the physical, psychological, and logistical needs of the astronauts. With ongoing research and development, the dream of sending humans to Mars is becoming increasingly feasible.
Source – The Verge
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
