Semi-autonomous colony

A semi autonomous colony on Mars lives basically on its own production of energy, food and air, provided by imported technology from Earth. All vital systems are lo-tech and can be maintained from local resources. Additional goods are regularly imported from Earth:

• Complicated medical equipment
• Drugs for medical treatment
• Luxury foods
• Non-vital hi-tech equipment (e.g. computers)

As part of a colonization strategy it may be an advanced step in the colonization program.

I enjoyed the slceetion of poetry and voices in this issue. Kristy Bowen's what monster left me with a eerie and memorable feeling. The lines I forgot about the war while rearranging the plates.We wanted to understand what science was, that big bluehope bursting through our door. were particularly striking. They captured the spirit of curiosity and a never-reachable inclusiveness of mundane knowledge with mindful philosophy. The feeling I was left with was familiar. The poem seemed to vocalize a frustration and almost a guilt I feel every day. I will remember it as one of my favorites. Kate Schapira's poems were equally as remarkable. The last line in CAUTION offered a beautiful picture and was a perfect summation for the poem. What a treat! Thank you very much.Charlotte Beard

What if support from Earth stops?

However, if the shipments were to stop, the colony would be able to sustain itself for the long run, based upon the lo-tech equipment. Some people may then choose to return to Earth if space access is possible.