Become a Martian!

Become a Martian!

Lee dong jin (jin)

There are many movies about space like “Star Wars”, “Space Odyssey 2001”, “Avatar” and “Martian”. Each movie represents the curiosity “Is the Earth the only livable planet ?”, “What would it be like living with other species?”, “How can we live away from Earth?”. But all these movies are based on one simple question, “What is out there?”. This question has existed more than 4,000 years. Our ancestors have observed space with their eyes, telescopes, and observatories. They found the moon, the solar system, and then the whole galaxy. According to their adventurous spirit, they started to send probes (Voyager 1, Explorer 1 and etc) to explore the universe. During this time, scientists found out the possibility of living organisms on other planets. Many countries and companies are focusing on exploring the planet Mars. Now, it’s been nearly 50 years since we landed mankind on the moon. Where are we now on this journey to the Mars? I’ll introduce you to two accessible projects for everyone who is planning to travel to Mars.

Why Mars?

        Mars is the fourth planet of the solar system and second smallest planet after Mercury. The rotational period and seasonal cycles of Mars are likewise similar to the Earth. Ongoing investigations on Mars found the habitability potential in the red planet. Rover on Mars found out the two large icecaps made of water. If it melted, it can cover the whole planetary surface to a depth of 11 meters with water. In November 2016, NASA also reported finding a large amount of underground ice in the Utopia Planitia region of Mars. Existent of water indicate the planet is able to create its own atmosphere and possibilities of cultivating and sustain life on it. When we explore Mars perfectly and build up the foundation to live on, it could be our alternative Earth.

Space X

                Space X is a private American company founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Elon Musk. The goal of this company is reducing space transportation costs and the colonization of Mars. In 2005, SpaceX announced plans to pursue a human-rated commercial space program through the end of the decade. On May 29, 2014, SpaceX revealed the Dragon V2 in a live webcast that marked a major step as it was the first spacecraft capable of bringing humans to the International Space Station(ISS) then taking them back to Earth. And in 2017, they also announced the plan to land at least two cargo ships on Mars in 2022.  Due to place power, mining and life support systems there for future flights. This year, 2018, they will send civilians using Dragon V2 to the moon to test and verify its capacity to bring mankind into space. The cost of a trip to Mars has been set at 10 million dollars, it is expected to reduce in price year by year so anyone who wants to travel to Mars can afford it.

Mars One

Mars One is a small Dutch organization founded in 2011. The president, Bas Lansdorp, said, the purpose of the company is to immigrate and settle people in Mars and broadcast the progress to all the world. By doing that, they will earn a broadcasting commission and give a new hope to mankind that anything can be possible. Since they don’t have any ‘hardware’ technology, they cooperate with Lockheed Martin, a world leading aerospace company, and Paragon Space Development, which provides environmental controls for extreme and hazardous environments. Mars One’s job is to meditate and connect people and conduct the operation. Anybody can be a candidate by supporting the company. For now, there is 1,058 candidates from 107 countries. Among them, they will select four random applicants who will be trained to be the first crew of Mars pioneers. They plan to send the pioneer team in 2031, and the second team will follow two years later. Until that, Rover, Comsat and cargo will be sent in order.

Do you want to become a Martian?

               Now here is the question, “What is out there?”, and there is an answer to that question. Whoever is brave enough and an adventurous spirit could seek that answer. So would you want to be a follower? Or become an interviewee? Are you ready to become a Martian?