If we send humans to Mars, will they be able to survive? How hostile is the solar system for human exploration?
The Mars environment presents many challenges to human survival and long-term residence. In addition to radiation, unbreathable atmosphere, and dust storms, surviving alien microorganisms can present a health risk.
The US Congress has directed NASA to plan for a human mission to Mars. A critical element of the planning is to ensure the health and safety of astronauts travelling to, working on, and returning from the Red Planet.
Join Tony Darnell, Harley Thronson and Alberto Conti as they explore with Arnauld Nicogossian (George Mason University), Catharine A. Conley (NASA Planetary Protection Officer) and Charles Doarn (University of Cincinnati) the challenges of living and working on Mars.