The process of Martian colonization is still at the initial stage. Scientists are looking for ways to combat the negative effects of radiation, weightlessness during the flight and the terrible conditions of the Red Planet, and engineers are thinking about how to bring the first people to the surface alive.
There is only one small nuance. Many scientists agree that the first human mission will be a one-way flight. Yes, all the “lucky ones” can consider Mars as the last refuge.
Ideally, the Martian colony should be fully automated, where people can extract water, air, food and materials for the growth of the colony. Therefore, the first colonists are forced to literally lay down their lives to develop the base and prepare the ground for the next generations.
Possible picture of the development of the Martian surface
And this is not at all a secret, since all the participants and applicants for the title of the first Martian colonists know about it. Moreover, they agree on a similar outcome. For example, such conditions are offered by the private project Mars One, whose representatives want to send the first people in 2031. Participants are told frankly that returning to Earth is impossible.
Of course, NASA, SpaceX and other companies or space agencies are planning to create a sustainable transportation system between Earth and Mars in the future. But now it is technically difficult and expensive. Time is also running out. You can wait and send people in the 2060s. with a chance to come back. But now everyone is talking about the 2030s, so you have to get used to the idea of sacrifice in the form of people chained to Mars.
Manned Mars ship
It is also important to remind that gravity on Mars is below the Earth's gravity - 0.38 g. Many believe that after a long stay in such conditions it will be impossible to return to Earth, because this is a serious blow to the body (it may be possible to return if you have spent no more than 2 years on the Red Planet).
Let's not forget about the radiation factor. In flight, astronauts will receive huge radiation doses, which can lead to cancer. In addition, recent studies have shown that radiation affects the psyche, slowing the process of adaptation to a new environment.
What do you think about it? Is it humane to send the first people to Mars knowing that they will never return? Or should this question not be discussed, since this is a sacrifice in the name of science and a personal choice of the colonists?
