Mars is the next big frontier of human space exploration , but it ’s hardly a hospitable world . While there have been many proposals for making the Red Planet a bit more snug , NASA scientist have now suggested that one way to do it would be to give Mars a magnetic plain .
This might seems like the pitch for a sci - fi movie , but the idea is based on substantial science . A magnetised area would protect astronauts from cosmic ray and allow Mars to have a thick and mild atmosphere . Achieving this exploit is in reality comparatively simple-minded . We would put a magnetic generator at a accurate point between Mars and the Sun .
The point in question is called L1 and it is a limited position . Something target there would always be located on the dot between the Sun and Mars , and since the solar wind isresponsiblefor depleting Mars ’ atmosphere , that ’s the only shelter needed to enrich the major planet again .
“ The magnetic field will be increase until the result magnetotail of the artificial magnetosphere embrace the intact major planet , ” theabstractof the research said . “ This situation then excrete many of the solar flatus eroding processes that take place with the planet ’s ionosphere and upper atmosphere , allowing the Martian air to grow in insistency and temperature over time . ”
How the unreal charismatic shield would bring . NASA / Green et al .
The inquiry was demonstrate at thePlanetary Science Vision 2050 Workshopby Dr Jim Green , NASA ’s Planetary Science Division Director . The theme behind this “ fanciful ” technology is actually being studied to protect astronaut and spacecraft . The scientists only think a more powerful shield and then run simulations of the potential consequences .
consort to the mannikin , this shield would , over time , increase the atmospheric insistence , which would lead to an increase in temperature . Just a 4 ° C ( 7.2 ° F ) step-up will melt the chicken feed in pivotal region , liberate CO2 and create a powerful glasshouse effect , enough for water to once again extravagantly flow on Mars .
The squad will run more simulations to establish how long it will take for an contrived magnetised field to surrender this terraforming overture .
While the scheme is absolutely challenging , it does n’t mean it could or should be done . Mars might be home to some basic living word form and although this might spoil our planetary expansion , we should take them into condition .
