Marspedia - User contributions [en]

Settlement

2012-01-01T15:30:28Z

Fa577: /* Why settlements on Mars? */

[[Image:76002main_marshabitat.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Artist's concept of a settlement on Mars]]

'''Settlements''' on [[Mars]] are planned to be a permanent [[habitat]] for human beings. The [[Mars Foundation]]™ is developing detailed plans for a [[Hillside settlement]] and a [[Plains settlement]].

Additionally, a [[volcanic cave settlement]] and a [[multi-layered vault settlement]] are considered.

==Location considerations==
*[[Natural resources]] should be nearby to avoid long journeys.
*Natural [[caves]] may be used for shelter or for [[energy storage#Compressed-air storage|energy storage]].
*[[Geothermal energy]] may be used for heating.
*Protection from [[solar radiation]] by mountains versus [[sunlight]] for [[greenhouse]] lighting.

==Why settlements on Mars?==
==Compared with other celestial bodies, for instance Earth's [[Moon]], the planet Mars provides a number of advantages. The Martian surface and [[atmosphere]] consists of all necessary substances that are needed to build and maintain a human settlement, including [[water]], [[carbon]] and [[minerals]]. The [[environmental conditions]] are quite cold, but not too cold. The distanc=e from the sun allows [[solar panel]]s to operate, which is essential for [[energy]] production.

===Particularly convenient is the existence of a visible sky, which can make people feel home, and the day-night rhythm is nearly earth like. Though the [[gravity]] is lower than on Earth, it still allows people easily to walk and do [[Physical exercise |exercise]]. The spacial orientation is supported. The comfort of sinking into a pillow for sleeping might be appreciated. And yet, there are several [[What settlers would miss|things, settlers would miss]].

===Advantage over Earth's moon===
* Higher gravity (with consequences for health)
* abundance of water and carbon

===Advantage over Venus===
* A cold environment is much easier to handle than a hot. Especially on the planetary surface, a settlement on Venus is not possible.
* Compared with a floating settlement in the Venusian clouds, the Martian surface provides easy access to substances for construction material.

===Advantage over Jovian satellites===
* Higher gravity (with consequences for health)
* Sufficient solar power

[[Category:Settlements]]

Settlement

2012-01-01T15:29:25Z

Fa577: /* Why settlements on Mars? */

[[Image:76002main_marshabitat.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Artist's concept of a settlement on Mars]]

'''Settlements''' on [[Mars]] are planned to be a permanent [[habitat]] for human beings. The [[Mars Foundation]]™ is developing detailed plans for a [[Hillside settlement]] and a [[Plains settlement]].

Additionally, a [[volcanic cave settlement]] and a [[multi-layered vault settlement]] are considered.

==Location considerations==
*[[Natural resources]] should be nearby to avoid long journeys.
*Natural [[caves]] may be used for shelter or for [[energy storage#Compressed-air storage|energy storage]].
*[[Geothermal energy]] may be used for heating.
*Protection from [[solar radiation]] by mountains versus [[sunlight]] for [[greenhouse]] lighting.

==Why settlements on Mars?==
==Compared with other celestial bodies, for instance Earth's [[Moon=]], the pl=anet Mars provides a number of advantages. The Martian surface and [[atmosphere]] consists of all necessary substances that are needed =to build and maintain a human settlement, including [[water==]], [[carbon===]] and [[minerals]]. The [[environmental conditions]] are quite cold, but not too cold. The distanc=e from the sun all=ows [[solar panel]]s to operate, which is essential for [[energy]] production.

===Particularly convenient is the existence of a visible sky, which can make people feel home, and the day-night rhythm is nearly earth like. Though the [[gravity]] is lower than on Earth, it still allows people easily to walk and do [[Physical exercise |exercise]]. The spacial orientation is supported. The comfort of sinking into a pillow for sleeping might be appreciated.== And yet, there are several [[What settlers would miss|things, settlers would miss]].

===Advantage over Earth's moon===
* Higher gravity (with consequences for health)
* abundance of water and carbon

===Advantage over Venus===
* A cold environment is much easier to handle than a hot. Especially on the planetary surface, a settlement on Venus is not possible.
* Co==mpared with a floating settlement in the Venusian clouds, the Martian surface provides easy access to substances for construction material.

===Advantage over Jovian satellites===
* Highe=r gravity (with consequences for health)
* Sufficient solar power

[[Category:Settlements]]

Biosphere 2

2012-01-01T15:18:37Z

Fa577:

plz find information

Biosphere 2

2012-01-01T15:17:32Z

Fa577: Blanked the page

Experimental setup

2012-01-01T15:17:04Z

Fa577: /* soil production */

The existing knowledge about [[Mars]] is a valuable basis for planning the first [[settlement]], but during the development of the Marspedia project some open issues arise, that require an '''Experimental Setup'''.

The needed knowledge can be obtained by simulating [[environmental conditions|Martian conditions]] in a terrestrial lab, where the experimental setup is placed. Only certain parameters have to be simulated, mostly [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and temperature. This page collects descriptions of those experiments required to find the needed knowledge.

==greenhouse heating==
The amount of [[energy]] to heat a Martian [[greenhouse]], that is lit by direct or indirect [[sunlight]], is unknown. It depends on the temperature difference between the Martian [[atmosphere]] and the temperature inside the greenhouse. It depends even more on the shape and the insulation methods and materials. An example layering of [[insulation]] must be developed. Influences of different greenhouse sizes must be taken into account. The whole concept must be [[radiation]] proof, protecting the construction and the plants inside.

===assumptions===
*The temperature inside the greenhouse is constantly at 20°C.
*The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and temperature values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.
*No heating effect from the sunlight.
*The construction uses long lasting materials (at least 10 years), withstanding Martian radiation, sand storms, etc.

===goals of the experiment===
*A viable shape of the greenhouse, capable to hold the air pressure.
*A viable layering of insulation.
*The required amount of energy per m2.

==soil production==
[[Soil]] can be made from powdered [[regolith]], enriched with artificial fertilizer and moistured with [[water]]. A small amount of terrestrial soil implants [[microbes]] and [[insects]]. Seeds of [[pioneer plants]] are used to start greening. It is unclear, how long it takes to make mold this way, allowing to grow food plants.

===assumptions===
*The temperature is constantly at 20°C.
*The air pressure is terrestrial sea level.
*The production of soil starts with 1 kg of natural soil and is carried out in a sequence of soil generations, multiplying the amount of usable soil.

===goals of the experiment===
*The best mixture for each generation.
*The best amount of moisture.
*The best pioneer plants.
*The time until 1000 kg of new soil is ready for food production.

==wind turbine==
The low [[atmosphere|atmospheric]] pressure on Mars has an effect on the work of a [[wind turbine]]. This can be simulated on Earth in a low pressure wind tunnel. The best shape of the rotor wings for thin air is needed. The stability for heavy [[dust storms]] must be considered. Additionaly we need an [[Needed explorations#Wind|exploration on the Martian surface]] to find out about the strength and frequency of winds.

===assumptions===
The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and wind speed values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.

===goals of the experiment===
*best shape of the rotor wings
*strength of the material and viable size

==water out of the atmosphere==
The Martian [[atmosphere]] contains a small percentage of water. With liquefaction technology the production of water should be able all over the planet's surface.

===assumptions===
The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]], temperature and moisture values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.

===goals of the experiment===
A comparison of different technical approaches with respect to
*energy consumption
*maintainability
*initial investigation
*required space

==See also==
*[[Needed explorations]]

[[Category: Technology]]

Greenhouse

2012-01-01T15:16:37Z

Fa577: /* Open Issues */

[[image:Eden_project.jpg|thumb|right|300px|[[The Eden Project]]] (near St Austell, Cornwall, UK) is a terrestrial example of the possible use of large ''biomes'' as greenhouses and life support for Mars colonies. ''Image credit: Jürgen Matern]]
Growing [[:category:plants|plants]] in a '''Greenhouse''' delivers [[oxygen]] and [[food]]. It can play an important part in human recreation ([[Mars Garden Wins Gold at London’s Chelsea Flower Show (MarsHome.org)|Mars Garden]]) and may be the place for [[funeral]]s. The [[sunlight]] is not bright enough on Mars to allow usual terrestrial plants to thrive, but it provides a valuable part of light energy for plants. Additional [[energy]] is necessary for lighting and heating.

The greenhouse will be constructed from transparent material, allowing maximum sunlight to pass, generating an artificial "[[greenhouse effect]]". The spectral properties of the material should be optimized to match the absorption characteristics of chlorophyll, maximizing the energy gain.

Plants need a mix of air pressure and temperature. The greenhouse must be strong enough to hold that air pressure, and it must be [[insulation|insulated]] to hold the temperature inside. Photosynthesis works only at fairly high temperatures.

==Side-lit Greenhouse Concept==

[[Image:Greenhouse_marsfoundation.jpg|thumb|left|300px|The [[Mars Foundation]] concept for a side-lit greenhouse.]]
The [[Mars Foundation]] concept for a greenhouse involves the maximum use of local materials to avoid waste, maximize energy input and optimize space. Spawned from the [[Hillside settlement]] design, the greenhouse would most likely be located inside/next to a hill side (possibly in the location of [[Candor Chasma]]). Therefore [[regolith]] or some other absorbant material could be suspended above the greenhouse to protect occupants and plants from [[solar radiation|harmful radiation]]. The source of light would therefore be directed from the side, via an array of adjustable mirrors. A system of vents and ducts would allow warm air to circulate, perhaps even used to heat the main habitat.

==Underground Greenhouse Concept==
[[Image:Underground Greenhouse.png|thumb|right|300px|Underground Greenhouse Concept]]

If geothermal energy is not available the heating will consume large amounts of electrical energy. In this case the sum of energy used for lighting and heating must be considered. An underground greenhouse is easier to insulate to hold warmth inside. On the other hand the effort of lighting is higher, since no direct sunlight is used. This concept has some additional advantages: It is [[meteorites|meteorite]]-safe and [[radiation]]-safe.

[[caves|Natural caves]] and [[artificial cave]]s can be utilized to build such an underground greenhouse, which requires a preparation with high effort in either case. The maintenance is quite cheep, for the ambient temperatures are steady and the radiation levels are low, so it is a good long term solution. A combination of greenhouse and living space for the settlers is suggested.

==Water-shield Greenhouse Concept==

[[Image:WaterShieldGreenhouse.png|thumb|right|300px|Water-shield Greenhouse Concept]]
[[Hydrogen]] does a good job absorbing [[cosmic radiation]]. [[Water]] contains highly concentrated hydrogen, and hence serves as a good radiation shield. On the other hand it is highly transparent for visible light and UV. The combination of both makes it an interesting material for greenhouse shielding.

Under a strong pressure resistent housing the water is placed in a thick layer. It absorbes the dangerous parts of cosmic radiation and [[sunlight]] and passes most of the spectral parts needed by [[human]]s and plants. Additionally, it helps to buffer daily temperature variations because of its high specific heat capacity.

The layering could be as follows: The outer layer is a construction of [[steel]] and [[glass]], providing enough strength for the difference in [[atmosphere|atmospheric pressure]]. It also serves as insulation for [[temperature]] differences. Additional sheets of glass or [[Synthetic materials|plastics]] improve the insulation effect. A [[self-healing puncture protection]] should be considered. The innermost layer is the water. It can be held by transparent canisters.

==Multiplying Sunlight==
[[Image:MultipleMirrorsForGreenhouse.png|thumb|left|300px|Multiple Mirrors for Greenhouse]]

A [[solar concentrator‎]] is a set of mirrors that can be used to bring more sunlight into the greenhouse than the base area of the greenhouse receives directly from the sun. Three times the amount of Martian sunlight should be enough to serve terrestrial plants. During good weather periods this allows growing vegetables without additional energy.

==Flora and fauna==
Plants can be grown either in liquid fertilizer ([[hydroponics]]) or in [[soil]]. Many plants live in symbiosis with [[microbes]] and [[insects]]. [[Bee]]s can be used to pollinate the blossoms for fruit plants. Probably, the greenhouse is less labor-intensive with as many natural processes as possible, including decay of dead parts of plants to [[compost]]. The growth of flora and fauna under the low Martian [[gravity]] bears some uncertainties.

==Nutrition and Energy Calculations==
Based upon the figures in the [[food]] and [[sunlight]] articles the following calculations can be carried out for an artificially lit greenhouse:

The minimum size of cropland per person is about 365 m2. The needed light energy can be assumed with 1000 kWh per m2 and year. The result is an annual amount of 365 MWh per person. In other words: An average illumination power of 41,67 kW per person is required.

The usage of fluorescent lamps with an efficiency factor of 30% results in a requirement of about 140 kW per person in electrical energy. The overall efficiency of food production with artificially lit greenhouses is less then 1 permille, or in other words, to produce food with a content of 1 kWh the amount of more than 1 MWh in electricity must be spent.

Parts of the required light can possibly be provided by direct or indirect sunlight. Heating the greenhouse will require additional energy.

==Open Issues==
*How long can plants survive without sunlight (e.g. during a dust storm)?
*How many persons are needed to work in the greenhouse to produce enough food for a hundred persons?
*How much energy is required for heating, especially during long lasting dust storms? This question can not be answered without an [[experimental setup#greenhouse heating|experimental setup]].
*What temperature and air pressure do plants need?
*What air pressure is needed for persons to work in the greenhouse?
*What transparent materials match the absorption characteristics of chlorophyll?
*Do plants need wind? How can it be provided?
*What is known about radiation tolerance of food crop?

==External links==
*[http://www.marshome.org/archives/2007/03/sidelit_greenho.php The Mars Foundation Side-lit Greenhouse design.]

{{SettlementIndex}}

{{Featured_red_ring}}

[[category:biospherics]]
[[category:greenhouse]]
[[category:agriculture]]

Greenhouse

2012-01-01T15:15:48Z

Fa577: /* Open Issues */

[[image:Eden_project.jpg|thumb|right|300px|[[The Eden Project]]] (near St Austell, Cornwall, UK) is a terrestrial example of the possible use of large ''biomes'' as greenhouses and life support for Mars colonies. ''Image credit: Jürgen Matern]]
Growing [[:category:plants|plants]] in a '''Greenhouse''' delivers [[oxygen]] and [[food]]. It can play an important part in human recreation ([[Mars Garden Wins Gold at London’s Chelsea Flower Show (MarsHome.org)|Mars Garden]]) and may be the place for [[funeral]]s. The [[sunlight]] is not bright enough on Mars to allow usual terrestrial plants to thrive, but it provides a valuable part of light energy for plants. Additional [[energy]] is necessary for lighting and heating.

The greenhouse will be constructed from transparent material, allowing maximum sunlight to pass, generating an artificial "[[greenhouse effect]]". The spectral properties of the material should be optimized to match the absorption characteristics of chlorophyll, maximizing the energy gain.

Plants need a mix of air pressure and temperature. The greenhouse must be strong enough to hold that air pressure, and it must be [[insulation|insulated]] to hold the temperature inside. Photosynthesis works only at fairly high temperatures.

==Side-lit Greenhouse Concept==

[[Image:Greenhouse_marsfoundation.jpg|thumb|left|300px|The [[Mars Foundation]] concept for a side-lit greenhouse.]]
The [[Mars Foundation]] concept for a greenhouse involves the maximum use of local materials to avoid waste, maximize energy input and optimize space. Spawned from the [[Hillside settlement]] design, the greenhouse would most likely be located inside/next to a hill side (possibly in the location of [[Candor Chasma]]). Therefore [[regolith]] or some other absorbant material could be suspended above the greenhouse to protect occupants and plants from [[solar radiation|harmful radiation]]. The source of light would therefore be directed from the side, via an array of adjustable mirrors. A system of vents and ducts would allow warm air to circulate, perhaps even used to heat the main habitat.

==Underground Greenhouse Concept==
[[Image:Underground Greenhouse.png|thumb|right|300px|Underground Greenhouse Concept]]

If geothermal energy is not available the heating will consume large amounts of electrical energy. In this case the sum of energy used for lighting and heating must be considered. An underground greenhouse is easier to insulate to hold warmth inside. On the other hand the effort of lighting is higher, since no direct sunlight is used. This concept has some additional advantages: It is [[meteorites|meteorite]]-safe and [[radiation]]-safe.

[[caves|Natural caves]] and [[artificial cave]]s can be utilized to build such an underground greenhouse, which requires a preparation with high effort in either case. The maintenance is quite cheep, for the ambient temperatures are steady and the radiation levels are low, so it is a good long term solution. A combination of greenhouse and living space for the settlers is suggested.

==Water-shield Greenhouse Concept==

[[Image:WaterShieldGreenhouse.png|thumb|right|300px|Water-shield Greenhouse Concept]]
[[Hydrogen]] does a good job absorbing [[cosmic radiation]]. [[Water]] contains highly concentrated hydrogen, and hence serves as a good radiation shield. On the other hand it is highly transparent for visible light and UV. The combination of both makes it an interesting material for greenhouse shielding.

Under a strong pressure resistent housing the water is placed in a thick layer. It absorbes the dangerous parts of cosmic radiation and [[sunlight]] and passes most of the spectral parts needed by [[human]]s and plants. Additionally, it helps to buffer daily temperature variations because of its high specific heat capacity.

The layering could be as follows: The outer layer is a construction of [[steel]] and [[glass]], providing enough strength for the difference in [[atmosphere|atmospheric pressure]]. It also serves as insulation for [[temperature]] differences. Additional sheets of glass or [[Synthetic materials|plastics]] improve the insulation effect. A [[self-healing puncture protection]] should be considered. The innermost layer is the water. It can be held by transparent canisters.

==Multiplying Sunlight==
[[Image:MultipleMirrorsForGreenhouse.png|thumb|left|300px|Multiple Mirrors for Greenhouse]]

A [[solar concentrator‎]] is a set of mirrors that can be used to bring more sunlight into the greenhouse than the base area of the greenhouse receives directly from the sun. Three times the amount of Martian sunlight should be enough to serve terrestrial plants. During good weather periods this allows growing vegetables without additional energy.

==Flora and fauna==
Plants can be grown either in liquid fertilizer ([[hydroponics]]) or in [[soil]]. Many plants live in symbiosis with [[microbes]] and [[insects]]. [[Bee]]s can be used to pollinate the blossoms for fruit plants. Probably, the greenhouse is less labor-intensive with as many natural processes as possible, including decay of dead parts of plants to [[compost]]. The growth of flora and fauna under the low Martian [[gravity]] bears some uncertainties.

==Nutrition and Energy Calculations==
Based upon the figures in the [[food]] and [[sunlight]] articles the following calculations can be carried out for an artificially lit greenhouse:

The minimum size of cropland per person is about 365 m2. The needed light energy can be assumed with 1000 kWh per m2 and year. The result is an annual amount of 365 MWh per person. In other words: An average illumination power of 41,67 kW per person is required.

The usage of fluorescent lamps with an efficiency factor of 30% results in a requirement of about 140 kW per person in electrical energy. The overall efficiency of food production with artificially lit greenhouses is less then 1 permille, or in other words, to produce food with a content of 1 kWh the amount of more than 1 MWh in electricity must be spent.

Parts of the required light can possibly be provided by direct or indirect sunlight. Heating the greenhouse will require additional energy.

==Open Issues==
*How long can plants survive without sunlight (e.g. during a dust storm)?
*How many persons are needed to work in the greenhouse to produce enough food for a hundred persons?
*How much energy is required for heating, especially during long lasting dust storms? This question can not be answered without an [[experimental setup#greenhouse heating|experimental setup]].
*What temperature and air pressure do plants need?
*What air pressure is needed for persons to work in the greenhouse?
*What transparent materials match the absorption characteristics of chlorophyll?
*Do plants need wind? How can it be provided?
*What is known about radiation tolerance of food crop?
"If we sell people on colonizing Mars, then deliver a few astronauts who waltz around on Mars a while and then come back and report that there is no reason to ever go back to that magnificent desolation that is Mars; there will be some unhappy people. Of course there is water on Mars, as ice, frost and hydrated minerals. There is every element needed to build factories and cities on Mars, but if the industrial infrastructure is not put into place to extract these things, they will not help a bit. Let us see the plan that will result in cities on Mars before we sell them. Mars will kill an unprotected human being about as quickly as Luna will. Let us not sell paradise and deliver a wasteland."

==External links==
*[http://www.marshome.org/archives/2007/03/sidelit_greenho.php The Mars Foundation Side-lit Greenhouse design.]

{{SettlementIndex}}

{{Featured_red_ring}}

[[category:biospherics]]
[[category:greenhouse]]
[[category:agriculture]]

Greenhouse

2012-01-01T15:15:31Z

Fa577: /* Open Issues */

[[image:Eden_project.jpg|thumb|right|300px|[[The Eden Project]]] (near St Austell, Cornwall, UK) is a terrestrial example of the possible use of large ''biomes'' as greenhouses and life support for Mars colonies. ''Image credit: Jürgen Matern]]
Growing [[:category:plants|plants]] in a '''Greenhouse''' delivers [[oxygen]] and [[food]]. It can play an important part in human recreation ([[Mars Garden Wins Gold at London’s Chelsea Flower Show (MarsHome.org)|Mars Garden]]) and may be the place for [[funeral]]s. The [[sunlight]] is not bright enough on Mars to allow usual terrestrial plants to thrive, but it provides a valuable part of light energy for plants. Additional [[energy]] is necessary for lighting and heating.

The greenhouse will be constructed from transparent material, allowing maximum sunlight to pass, generating an artificial "[[greenhouse effect]]". The spectral properties of the material should be optimized to match the absorption characteristics of chlorophyll, maximizing the energy gain.

Plants need a mix of air pressure and temperature. The greenhouse must be strong enough to hold that air pressure, and it must be [[insulation|insulated]] to hold the temperature inside. Photosynthesis works only at fairly high temperatures.

==Side-lit Greenhouse Concept==

[[Image:Greenhouse_marsfoundation.jpg|thumb|left|300px|The [[Mars Foundation]] concept for a side-lit greenhouse.]]
The [[Mars Foundation]] concept for a greenhouse involves the maximum use of local materials to avoid waste, maximize energy input and optimize space. Spawned from the [[Hillside settlement]] design, the greenhouse would most likely be located inside/next to a hill side (possibly in the location of [[Candor Chasma]]). Therefore [[regolith]] or some other absorbant material could be suspended above the greenhouse to protect occupants and plants from [[solar radiation|harmful radiation]]. The source of light would therefore be directed from the side, via an array of adjustable mirrors. A system of vents and ducts would allow warm air to circulate, perhaps even used to heat the main habitat.

==Underground Greenhouse Concept==
[[Image:Underground Greenhouse.png|thumb|right|300px|Underground Greenhouse Concept]]

If geothermal energy is not available the heating will consume large amounts of electrical energy. In this case the sum of energy used for lighting and heating must be considered. An underground greenhouse is easier to insulate to hold warmth inside. On the other hand the effort of lighting is higher, since no direct sunlight is used. This concept has some additional advantages: It is [[meteorites|meteorite]]-safe and [[radiation]]-safe.

[[caves|Natural caves]] and [[artificial cave]]s can be utilized to build such an underground greenhouse, which requires a preparation with high effort in either case. The maintenance is quite cheep, for the ambient temperatures are steady and the radiation levels are low, so it is a good long term solution. A combination of greenhouse and living space for the settlers is suggested.

==Water-shield Greenhouse Concept==

[[Image:WaterShieldGreenhouse.png|thumb|right|300px|Water-shield Greenhouse Concept]]
[[Hydrogen]] does a good job absorbing [[cosmic radiation]]. [[Water]] contains highly concentrated hydrogen, and hence serves as a good radiation shield. On the other hand it is highly transparent for visible light and UV. The combination of both makes it an interesting material for greenhouse shielding.

Under a strong pressure resistent housing the water is placed in a thick layer. It absorbes the dangerous parts of cosmic radiation and [[sunlight]] and passes most of the spectral parts needed by [[human]]s and plants. Additionally, it helps to buffer daily temperature variations because of its high specific heat capacity.

The layering could be as follows: The outer layer is a construction of [[steel]] and [[glass]], providing enough strength for the difference in [[atmosphere|atmospheric pressure]]. It also serves as insulation for [[temperature]] differences. Additional sheets of glass or [[Synthetic materials|plastics]] improve the insulation effect. A [[self-healing puncture protection]] should be considered. The innermost layer is the water. It can be held by transparent canisters.

==Multiplying Sunlight==
[[Image:MultipleMirrorsForGreenhouse.png|thumb|left|300px|Multiple Mirrors for Greenhouse]]

A [[solar concentrator‎]] is a set of mirrors that can be used to bring more sunlight into the greenhouse than the base area of the greenhouse receives directly from the sun. Three times the amount of Martian sunlight should be enough to serve terrestrial plants. During good weather periods this allows growing vegetables without additional energy.

==Flora and fauna==
Plants can be grown either in liquid fertilizer ([[hydroponics]]) or in [[soil]]. Many plants live in symbiosis with [[microbes]] and [[insects]]. [[Bee]]s can be used to pollinate the blossoms for fruit plants. Probably, the greenhouse is less labor-intensive with as many natural processes as possible, including decay of dead parts of plants to [[compost]]. The growth of flora and fauna under the low Martian [[gravity]] bears some uncertainties.

==Nutrition and Energy Calculations==
Based upon the figures in the [[food]] and [[sunlight]] articles the following calculations can be carried out for an artificially lit greenhouse:

The minimum size of cropland per person is about 365 m2. The needed light energy can be assumed with 1000 kWh per m2 and year. The result is an annual amount of 365 MWh per person. In other words: An average illumination power of 41,67 kW per person is required.

The usage of fluorescent lamps with an efficiency factor of 30% results in a requirement of about 140 kW per person in electrical energy. The overall efficiency of food production with artificially lit greenhouses is less then 1 permille, or in other words, to produce food with a content of 1 kWh the amount of more than 1 MWh in electricity must be spent.

Parts of the required light can possibly be provided by direct or indirect sunlight. Heating the greenhouse will require additional energy.

==Open Issues==
*How long can plants survive without sunlight (e.g. during a dust storm)?
*How many persons are needed to work in the greenhouse to produce enough food for a hundred persons?
*How much energy is required for heating, especially during long lasting dust storms? This question can not be answered without an [[experimental setup#greenhouse heating|experimental setup]].
*What temperature and air pressure do plants need?
*What air pressure is needed for persons to work in the greenhouse?
*What transparent materials match the absorption characteristics of chlorophyll?
*Do plants need wind? How can it be provided?
*What is known about radiation tolerance of food crop?
If we sell people on colonizing Mars, then deliver a few astronauts who waltz around on Mars a while and then come back and report that there is no reason to ever go back to that magnificent desolation that is Mars; there will be some unhappy people. Of course there is water on Mars, as ice, frost and hydrated minerals. There is every element needed to build factories and cities on Mars, but if the industrial infrastructure is not put into place to extract these things, they will not help a bit. Let us see the plan that will result in cities on Mars before we sell them. Mars will kill an unprotected human being about as quickly as Luna will. Let us not sell paradise and deliver a wasteland."

==External links==
*[http://www.marshome.org/archives/2007/03/sidelit_greenho.php The Mars Foundation Side-lit Greenhouse design.]

{{SettlementIndex}}

{{Featured_red_ring}}

[[category:biospherics]]
[[category:greenhouse]]
[[category:agriculture]]

Experimental setup

2012-01-01T15:13:05Z

Fa577: /* soil production */

The existing knowledge about [[Mars]] is a valuable basis for planning the first [[settlement]], but during the development of the Marspedia project some open issues arise, that require an '''Experimental Setup'''.

The needed knowledge can be obtained by simulating [[environmental conditions|Martian conditions]] in a terrestrial lab, where the experimental setup is placed. Only certain parameters have to be simulated, mostly [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and temperature. This page collects descriptions of those experiments required to find the needed knowledge.

==greenhouse heating==
The amount of [[energy]] to heat a Martian [[greenhouse]], that is lit by direct or indirect [[sunlight]], is unknown. It depends on the temperature difference between the Martian [[atmosphere]] and the temperature inside the greenhouse. It depends even more on the shape and the insulation methods and materials. An example layering of [[insulation]] must be developed. Influences of different greenhouse sizes must be taken into account. The whole concept must be [[radiation]] proof, protecting the construction and the plants inside.

===assumptions===
*The temperature inside the greenhouse is constantly at 20°C.
*The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and temperature values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.
*No heating effect from the sunlight.
*The construction uses long lasting materials (at least 10 years), withstanding Martian radiation, sand storms, etc.

===goals of the experiment===
*A viable shape of the greenhouse, capable to hold the air pressure.
*A viable layering of insulation.
*The required amount of energy per m2.

==soil production==
[[Soil]] can be made from powdered [[regolith]], enriched with artificial fertilizer and moistured with [[water]]. A small amount of terrestrial soil implants [[microbes]] and [[insects]]. Seeds of [[pioneer plants]] are used to start greening. It is unclear, how long it takes to make mold this way, allowing to grow food plants.

===assumptions===
*The temperature is constantly at 20°C.
*The air pressure is terrestrial sea level.
*The production of soil starts with 1 kg of natural soil and is carried out in a sequence of soil generations, multiplying the amount of usable soil.

===goals of the experiment===
*The best mixture for each generation.
*The best amount of moisture.
*The best pioneer plants.
*The time until 1000 kg of new soil is ready for food production.
"If we sell people on colonizing Mars, then deliver a few astronauts who waltz around on Mars a while and then come back and report that there is no reason to ever go back to that magnificent desolation that is Mars; there will be some unhappy people. Of course there is water on Mars, as ice, frost and hydrated minerals. There is every element needed to build factories and cities on Mars, but if the industrial infrastructure is not put into place to extract these things, they will not help a bit. Let us see the plan that will result in cities on Mars before we sell them. Mars will kill an unprotected human being about as quickly as Luna will. Let us not sell paradise and deliver a wasteland."

==wind turbine==
The low [[atmosphere|atmospheric]] pressure on Mars has an effect on the work of a [[wind turbine]]. This can be simulated on Earth in a low pressure wind tunnel. The best shape of the rotor wings for thin air is needed. The stability for heavy [[dust storms]] must be considered. Additionaly we need an [[Needed explorations#Wind|exploration on the Martian surface]] to find out about the strength and frequency of winds.

===assumptions===
The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and wind speed values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.

===goals of the experiment===
*best shape of the rotor wings
*strength of the material and viable size

==water out of the atmosphere==
The Martian [[atmosphere]] contains a small percentage of water. With liquefaction technology the production of water should be able all over the planet's surface.

===assumptions===
The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]], temperature and moisture values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.

===goals of the experiment===
A comparison of different technical approaches with respect to
*energy consumption
*maintainability
*initial investigation
*required space

==See also==
*[[Needed explorations]]

[[Category: Technology]]

Experimental setup

2012-01-01T15:12:32Z

Fa577: /* soil production */

The existing knowledge about [[Mars]] is a valuable basis for planning the first [[settlement]], but during the development of the Marspedia project some open issues arise, that require an '''Experimental Setup'''.

The needed knowledge can be obtained by simulating [[environmental conditions|Martian conditions]] in a terrestrial lab, where the experimental setup is placed. Only certain parameters have to be simulated, mostly [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and temperature. This page collects descriptions of those experiments required to find the needed knowledge.

==greenhouse heating==
The amount of [[energy]] to heat a Martian [[greenhouse]], that is lit by direct or indirect [[sunlight]], is unknown. It depends on the temperature difference between the Martian [[atmosphere]] and the temperature inside the greenhouse. It depends even more on the shape and the insulation methods and materials. An example layering of [[insulation]] must be developed. Influences of different greenhouse sizes must be taken into account. The whole concept must be [[radiation]] proof, protecting the construction and the plants inside.

===assumptions===
*The temperature inside the greenhouse is constantly at 20°C.
*The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and temperature values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.
*No heating effect from the sunlight.
*The construction uses long lasting materials (at least 10 years), withstanding Martian radiation, sand storms, etc.

===goals of the experiment===
*A viable shape of the greenhouse, capable to hold the air pressure.
*A viable layering of insulation.
*The required amount of energy per m2.

==soil production==
[[Soil]] can be made from powdered [[regolith]], enriched with artificial fertilizer and moistured with [[water]]. A small amount of terrestrial soil implants [[microbes]] and [[insects]]. Seeds of [[pioneer plants]] are used to start greening. It is unclear, how long it takes to make mold this way, allowing to grow food plants.

===assumptions===
*The temperature is constantly at 20°C.
*The air pressure is terrestrial sea level.
*The production of soil starts with 1 kg of natural soil and is carried out in a sequence of soil generations, multiplying the amount of usable soil.

===goals of the experiment===
*The best mixture for each generation.
*The best amount of moisture.
*The best pioneer plants.
*The time until 1000 kg of new soil is ready for food production.
If we sell people on colonizing Mars, then deliver a few astronauts who waltz around on Mars a while and then come back and report that there is no reason to ever go back to that magnificent desolation that is Mars; there will be some unhappy people. Of course there is water on Mars, as ice, frost and hydrated minerals. There is every element needed to build factories and cities on Mars, but if the industrial infrastructure is not put into place to extract these things, they will not help a bit. Let us see the plan that will result in cities on Mars before we sell them. Mars will kill an unprotected human being about as quickly as Luna will. Let us not sell paradise and deliver a wasteland."

==wind turbine==
The low [[atmosphere|atmospheric]] pressure on Mars has an effect on the work of a [[wind turbine]]. This can be simulated on Earth in a low pressure wind tunnel. The best shape of the rotor wings for thin air is needed. The stability for heavy [[dust storms]] must be considered. Additionaly we need an [[Needed explorations#Wind|exploration on the Martian surface]] to find out about the strength and frequency of winds.

===assumptions===
The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]] and wind speed values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.

===goals of the experiment===
*best shape of the rotor wings
*strength of the material and viable size

==water out of the atmosphere==
The Martian [[atmosphere]] contains a small percentage of water. With liquefaction technology the production of water should be able all over the planet's surface.

===assumptions===
The known [[atmosphere|air pressure]], temperature and moisture values of the [[environmental conditions|Martian environment]] are used for the experiment.

===goals of the experiment===
A comparison of different technical approaches with respect to
*energy consumption
*maintainability
*initial investigation
*required space

==See also==
*[[Needed explorations]]

[[Category: Technology]]

Biosphere 2

2012-01-01T15:07:44Z

Fa577: If we sell people on colonizing Mars, then deliver a few astronauts who waltz around on Mars a while and then come back and report that there is no reason to ever go back to that magnificent

"The group of Mars colonization enthusiasts has a larger share of people with engineering expertise than the average group foisting some scheme upon the public as worthy of their altruistic support." " Engineers and aerospace engineers in particular have had a sorry record of selling projects to the public." " It is famous that any project recommended to the military takes longer, costs more, and does less than the boosters claim when they propose it; and not by any small margin. The people who sold the space station and the space shuttle are included." " That is the reputation we have." " It will not change this year or the next." " Engineers as a group have a disinclination to tell the boss that his or her pet project will not perform as advertised." " When it is clear that a part of a project he or she is responsible for will cause problems, the engineer says so, but there have been times when something could have been said but it was not." " We have had astronauts trained as fighter pilots even when it was clear that the best pilot for a rocket to orbit is a computer." " Worse, a pilot was designed into the space shuttle system." " The Soviet's Buran was not an economic vehicle, but it did prove that a pilot was not needed for a shuttle type vehicle." " A robot pilot and lack of a front window might not have been enough to save the space shuttle from economic ruin, but it would have helped." " The requirement for astronauts to be pilots was a matter of policy from Dwight D. Eisenhower, and it is proper for engineers that are hired to implement a policy do that instead of suggesting an alternate policy." " With all due respect to the memory of Eisenhower, having fighter pilots aboard a rocket does not help the rocket reach orbit." " The man-rating feature of giving the pilot control of abort modes never saved any lives." " The man-rating system had requirements that only the Space Shuttle could fulfill, guaranteeing that the project would continue until it killed astronauts." " Now that the space shuttle is destined to retire, the up-dating of the man-rating system can be considered too."

"Putting make work projects on the space shuttle or on the space station did not enhance the prestige of astronauts in the long run. People learned that sending up astronauts increases the expense of a project that could be done with robots, but it was the price that was paid to get funding from the NASA bureaucracy. If the purpose of a space program is to have astronauts as a demonstration of national technical prowess, this almost makes sense. If the purpose of a space program is to make progress toward eventual spaIf we sell people on colonizing Mars, then deliver a few astronauts who waltz around on Mars a while and then come back and report that there is no reason to ever go back to that magnificent desolation that is Mars; there will be some unhappy people. Of course there is water on Mars, as ice, frost and hydrated minerals. There is every element needed to build factories and cities on Mars, but if the industrial infrastructure is not put into place to extract these things, they will not help a bit. Let us see the plan that will result in cities on Mars before we sell them. Mars will kill an unprotected human being about as quickly as Luna will. Let us not" sell paradise and deliver a wasteland."ce colonization, make work projects for astronauts in orbit make no sense."