Why Mars?
What natural resource may have once existed on Mars?
Liquid water
What kind of storm can cover all of Mars?
Global dust storms that last for months.
What Earth cycle is missing and must be recreated on Mars?
The water cycle (condensation and evaporation).
How can solar panels stay effective during dust storms?
With dust-repelling coatings.
What type of plant grows in 10 days and is nutrient-rich?
Microgreens like arugula.
What does Mars help us test for future exploration?
Technologies for deep space travel.
How much stronger is radiation on Mars compared to Earth?
250 times stronger.
What key role is missing due to no insects like bees?
Pollination must be done artificially or by hand.
What energy system runs safely with little oversight?
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
What organism can help recycle waste on Mars?
Mushrooms (fungal systems).
How does Mars exploration bring countries together?
It inspires international cooperation.
What’s the atmospheric pressure on Mars compared to Earth?
Only 0.6% of Earth’s atmosphere.
What gas cycle must be managed for human survival?
The CO₂ and O₂ balance.
How can domes generate power from colonist movement?
With piezoelectric floors.
What plants can survive dry Martian conditions and store water?
Cacti and succulents.
How can Mars serve humanity during a disaster?
As a backup location for human civilization.
Why must habitats be sealed?
Mars has no breathable oxygen.
Why is composting difficult on Mars?
Mars lacks bacteria and fungi.
What system is essential during power failures?
Redundant energy systems.
What small animal provides meat and eggs with low resource use?
Quail
What Earth benefit comes from closed-loop Mars systems?
Developing sustainable technologies for Earth.
What is missing from Martian soil that’s needed for farming?
Microbes for decomposition and growth.
Why is biodiversity hard to maintain on Mars?
There is no natural selection or evolution.
What smart energy storage uses heat?
Thermal batteries store heat during the day and release it at night.
What Indigenous practice supports food independence?
Seed saving and fire stewardship.