By 
June 9th, 2022
Credit: NASA/JPL
NASA is evaluating a first human stay on the surface of Mars lasting some 30-days.
Scientists and engineers are debating how to best use that month on Mars – plant a flag, just stay alive, conduct valuable science, or scurry around and set up equipment for the next human Mars landing team?
Credit: NASA
Turns out, site selection will be critical, and hauling select gear on that maiden outing will likely set the framework for future human exploration of the Red Planet.
Go to my new Space.com story “Mars Base 101: How astronauts could make the most of a 30-day Red Planet stay – Mars explorers could get a lot done in a month, experts say,” at: https://www.space.com/nasa-astronauts-30-day-mars-mission-science
Posted in Space News
Hi Leonard, Interesting article. I wonder why astronauts on Mars are always shown carrying these big packs on their backs? Although a 100 lb pack will weigh only 38 lbs on Mars the astronauts might not be conditioned to carry them at the onset. They will consume more calories and more oxygen. Given the major advances on robotics, such as Boston Dynamics Spot, why not let these robots carry the (dis-mountable with long connectors) pack and any needed tools. It is a trade off between human calories vs solar energy. The weight of the robot can be compensated by savings in food needed by humans to carry the extra weight around. Look forward to your thoughts.