Settlement
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.
- Geothermal energy may be used for heating.
- Protection from solar radiation by mountains versus sunlight for greenhouse lighting.