What does the future hold for humans and Mars? The search for Mars resources and a solid landing site is on top of the NASA list of space stuff to get done. The quest for humans on Mars by 2030 may be a reachable goal for NASA. They have plans for a new orbiter and the most effective way to harness and use Red Planet resources. The first NASA astronauts, or Elon Musk SpaceX team to reach Mars will need to be able to sustain life. The search for a landing site that will not result in a disaster and resources is on. But Mars rover Curiosity is too slow and too close to the ground to give scientists the best view. Despite his cute selfies, NASA needs space helicopters to do the job. Could this be possible?
Finding The Perfect NASA LZ
Scientists have enough space stuff on their mind. Between chipped glass on the ISS, near Earth asteroids, and now Mars landing zones, you can expect a bit of frustration. Last year they found 50 possible landing zone locations for human decent. The landing sites must meet some criteria. They must be regions ready for touchdown. And have successful landings with “space” to conduct their Red Planet missions. Any landing zone should also be close enough to an area that will allow for drilling. Not oil, but water. A new one for the U.S. government.
Tapping the Red Planet Rockies
Once a manned crew successfully lands on Mars, they will need to make the most of what they brought. As well as what they can find. Water, of course, is a big issue. Scientists estimate that the crew will need to land near an area that they can drill for roughly 110 tons of water. The astronauts will also need to use the resources available as well. The space agency is already experimenting with potato farming in Chile. Not kidding. Just like Matt Damon’s character in the movie Martian.
Red Planet Helicopters
There are a lot of space agencies around the world with their sites set on the Red Planet. The list includes NASA, China, Russia, India, the United Arab Emirates, and private space companies like SpaceX too. What is the rush? This could make for a crowded Mars. And of course, the first thing humans do is begin depleting resources. If we plan on finding those resources, a space helicopter may be in order. What is better than flying in a helicopter? Flying in a helicopter on Mars. NASA space helicopters could give astronauts the vantage point they need. Maybe the next rover should come equipped with a drone. Not sure how the atmosphere would affect a space helicopter. But I am sure one of the above countries can figure it out. Maybe we should ask Elon Musk?
