Semi-autonomous colony

A Semi autonomous colony is a an Autonomous colony that is in regular contact with Earth. Everything in the colony is mostly lo-tech, and made on location. Energy is provided by the sun or the wind. Food and oxygen are produced by plants on site. Most medical care is lo-tech and situated on-site, however, complicated medical equipment and drugs are available. Luxury foods are also brought from Earth. Computers and other devices are also maintained by repair parts that are shipped periodically from Earth. However, if the shipments were to stop, the colony would be able to sustain itself, although without hi-tech equipment. Some people may choose to return to Earth. Early in the history of the colony, crews would likely rotate, in a similar manner to a moon base or the ISS.

Limitations of shipping

Shipping to Mars with current launcher technology will be expensive. Cheaper, commercial launchers must be developed if continued shipping is to be a reallity. Although landing large payloads on the surface is difficult, this could be done with technology designed for the original construction of the colony. The limitations on shipping, however, mean that this is very close to an autonomous colony.