MARS-X
Conclusion
“One doesn’t discover new lands without consenting to lose sight, for a very long time, of the shore.“ André Gide
Is such a preparatory mission feasible?
Yes, with current technological capabilities, assuming moderate progress in the near future.
Is such a mission affordable?
Yes, but only with worldwide cooperation, and also creating opportunities for the private sector. Outreach has a key role to play in this.
Is such a mission recommended?
Yes, if a major step towards reaching Mars is to be achieved. In terms of scientific research the potential offered by Mars-X is unrivalled. The benefits are accompanied by a significant financial cost; this is, however, considered necessary.
Is it worth exploring Mars with humans from orbit before landing?
Yes, if we intend to bring risk levels down to an acceptable level for humans to land. As Apollo 10 was an indispensable stepping stone for the Moon program, Mars-X is a proposal that will require resources, yet is well justified to ensure a safe and fruitful Mars landing.
Mars has been an inspiration for centuries; now it is time for dreams to come true. There is a common consensus that Mars is the next goal in the exploration of the solar system. Landing on a moon of Mars will create synergies both in politics, education and science while fueling economic vitality in engineering. Becoming an interplanetary race will elevate humanity to a new level of thought.
By targeting Phobos as humanity’s next stepping stone to Mars, this project will unify both the Asteroid-Next and the Moon-Next communities.
Mars-X has defined an aggressive yet realistic timeline. In 2023 the LEO assembly process will begin and by 2024 the spacecraft will be ready to set sail to Phobos. Nuclear engines with cryogenically stored propellant, artificial gravity and the ideals of public engagement are among the key factors for this mission to succeed.
Humans will take advantage of this endeavour to study Mars locally, paving the way for future Mars landing missions. This will focus on several key areas of research; the radiation environment, atmospheric conditions, Martian geology, volcanism, in situ resource investigation and life on Mars. The astronauts will take advantage of near-real time telerobotics to impose their presence on the surface of Mars, while the rovers will scrape its surface using powerful drills and collect samples to bring back home.
Finally Mars-X proposes an alternative to the standard multi-national approach. The Mars-X Consortium is ready to revolutionize international collaboration for the benefit of mankind. Nations and private entities together as coequals will start a true international collaboration and they will establish a framework of political initiatives that will offer governments and corporations a platform for cooperation.