Reports of new NASA tests reveal that astronauts and space tourists may not survive travel to Mars. If they do survive the trip, astronauts will most certainly never return from the Red Planet. In order to stop the gravitational death waiting for humans on Mars, NASA is testing mice. This could bring any manned space travel to Mars to certain disaster. Can humans survive on Mars? Or are we simply stuck on Earth? If the space agency cannot find a solution soon, SpaceX and other space agencies may never set foot on Martian soil.
Slow Space Death for Astronauts
The NASA tests on mice will help them better understand how the human body breaks down in space. And how it will break down on Mars as well. Presently, it is not looking that great for humans. Astronauts could die a slow and painful death while under Mars’ planetary pressures. The trip to Mars is eight months, unless SpaceX or Blue Origin creates a faster rocket. During these eight months, an astronaut’s bones and muscle will break down. And break down fast. The astronauts at the ISS for long periods show weaker bones and muscle waste due to the lack of gravity. There is also a threat to their hearts as well.
Of Mice and Men, on Mars
Astronauts have a lot of stress in space. Sleep is an issue, and maintaining strength is a big problem. Naturally, mice are being tested for a zero gravity solution. Several research centers are working with NASA to find a way to keep astronauts fitter in space and on Mars. Previous mice missions in space have led to advancements in osteoporosis on Earth. And mice are once again being tested for space readiness in NASA’s rodent space habitat. These mice were sent into microgravity for two weeks at a time. One group of mice was given a molecule that aimed at fighting the bone and muscle loss astronauts would experience. Another group of mice was given a placebo. NASA did find some success, but the research is far from conclusive.
Is NASA Wasting Time and Tax Dollars?
It is interesting that NASA and other private space agencies like SpaceX are spending so much money to go to a planet that will kill astronauts. Despite the lack of water, supplies and the challenge of getting to Mars, everyone continues to build rockets and spacecraft. NASA’s budget is in the billions, and they fund nearly half of SpaceX tech as well. Their push to land and colonize Mars seems flawed. Especially since they don’t even have a solution for keeping the human body alive. Should we still be focusing on Mars?
