The question of Mars colonization has attracted growing public interest in recent years, alongside an increase in SpaceX launches. SpaceX now boasts a multibillion-dollar net worth, and its famous CEO, Elon Musk, may become the richest man in the world in coming years. Popular movies and books such as The Martian and John Carter of Mars capitalize on the trend. Each new launch claiming to bring us closer to a Mars voyage triggers a corresponding media frenzy and surge in stock market activity.
It may be no surprise, then, that the number of degrees granted in fields such as aerospace and mechanical engineering has also increased in the past decade, as prospective college students sign on for their opportunity to help make space exploration a reality.
Perhaps a human population on the red planet is not as far-flung as we think. Engineers and scientists have divided the issue of Mars colonization into a few key domains, namely basic life support, food production, resource extraction and extraterrestrial communication.
So, is a move to Mars just another wish upon a shooting star? Let's explore the possibilities and take a look at the biggest challenges.