We should rethink how to send humans to Mars — a goal now getting much discussion. With proposed budgets and current technical difficulties in human spaceflight development making such a goal unrealistic, it may be time to change the focus from humans getting to Mars to sustainable exploration of Mars by humans. To that end, we need to deal with how unrealistic the human-to-Mars goal is. Only then can we put forward a new approach that’s more affordable, more achievable and ultimately more exciting for humans to explore Mars.

To continue reading this article:

Register now to read
3 free articles this month.

You’ll also receive our weekly Editor’s Choice, SpaceNews This Week and Opinions newsletters. Opt-out at any time.

Sign in to an existing account

Get unlimited access to SpaceNews.com, the SpaceNews app and our digital monthly magazine for less than $5 per week.

$280

Cancel anytime. Sales tax may apply. No refunds. Terms and conditions apply.

See all subscription options