Humans have always been captivated by the idea of space travel and exploring new frontiers. In recent years, unprecedented advancements in space exploration and aerospace technology have made this goal closer than ever before. From powerful rockets to nanotechnology, NASA will capture imaginations with their ambitious plan to send astronauts on an extended mission toward Mars. They are putting massive research efforts and investments in five main technologies to make such a trip possible.

New engine technologies

NASA is exploring new engine technology to help send humans to Mars. One possibility is solar electric propulsion, which uses the energy of sunlight to propel a spacecraft without the need for traditional chemical propellant. This could be used to send cargo ahead of a human mission, ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies are ready and waiting when astronauts arrive. Solar electric propulsion has been tested in space on communications satellites at power levels of 10 to 15 kW (kilowatts), however NASA plans to increase this significantly for missions, aiming for more than 50 kW.Artist rendering of a solar electric engine. Source: NASAArtist rendering of a solar electric engine. Source: NASA

NASA is also exploring electric ion propulsion as a potential engine technology. This type of propulsion works by accelerating charged atoms or molecules with an electromagnetic field to create thrust. Although ion propulsion is typically used for generating low thrust and acceleration on satellites in space, it can achieve high speeds given enough time and sufficient power levels.

Using nuclear thermal rockets for space travel offers several advantages, including faster transit times that reduce risks for astronauts. This is crucial for human missions to Mars, as shorter journeys require fewer supplies and stronger systems. Advancing efficient transportation technology also supports NASA's Moon to Mars Objectives. Additional benefits encompass higher science payload capacity, enhanced power for communication and instrumentation. Nuclear thermal rockets function by utilizing a fission reactor to generate high temperatures, transferring heat to a liquid propellant that propels the spacecraft through a nozzle. Compared to traditional chemical propulsion, nuclear thermal rockets can achieve threefold or greater efficiency.

High-tech spacesuits

NASA’s xEMU spacesuits are a huge step forward in space exploration technology. They prioritize the safety of the crew while allowing for more natural movements and task accomplishment than ever before. By engineering them to be modular, NASA can easily update and customize the suits for any mission and environment, including those on Mars.

Source: NASASource: NASA

The Martian atmosphere is much different from that of Earth — it has significantly higher levels of carbon dioxide, which could threaten astronaut health if not properly managed. To address this, engineers have proposed incorporating life support systems into the xEMU suits, which would work to actively manage and filter out the hazardous gas levels in order to provide a safe environment for astronauts.

Inflatable heat shield

Inflatable heat shields could revolutionize spacecraft entering and landing on any planet with an atmosphere, including Mars. NASA is currently working on an inflatable heat shield prototype, with a 6 meter diameter (about 20 ft) flight test scheduled in the near future.

This technology works by using an inflatable surface that takes up less space in a rocket, compared to a rigid heat shield. Before entering the Martian atmosphere, the shield would expand and inflate, allowing it to protect spacecraft and astronauts from extreme temperatures during their descent onto the planet’s surface.

The flight test will help researchers assess how well this technology can handle hot atmospheric conditions and provide data on what modifications might be necessary before attempting an actual mission to Mars. The results could also inform similar technologies for use in Earth-based missions.

Space 'RV'

NASA’s pressurized rover will be a game-changer for astronauts on their way to Mars. Like an RV, the vehicle will have everything inside that astronauts need to live and work for weeks at a time — including living quarters, hygiene facilities and storage. It will also include comfortable seats and radios that will keep crew members connected with colleagues back on Earth.

A key aspect of the rover is its mobility; it needs to be able to drive significant distances across varied Martian terrain. To make sure it can handle this challenge, NASA has conducted extensive rover testing on Earth using various terrains like lava fields and sand dunes. Test results are informing development of features such as adjustable suspension systems, shock absorbers, and special wheels that can handle rocky surfaces.

As well as mobility, the rover needs to be designed for long-term habitation. The vehicle must provide a safe, secure environment so astronauts don’t become stressed out or feel too isolated during their mission. To help with this, NASA is investigating how to integrate features such as temperature control, airlock systems, motion sensors, communication systems and fire suppression systems into the rover’s design.

To Mars and beyond?

With the tremendous amount of progress being made on researching and developing space technologies, incredible adventures to Mars and beyond may soon be a reality. International teams of scientists are committed to achieving this goal and the innovative advances they have already made are incredible. Though there is still much work to be done, the technologies discussed in this blog post demonstrate NASA’s commitment to sending humans to safely explore new worlds.

Taking someone from Earth all the way to a neighboring planet is an exciting prospect, and one that more individuals are now involved in making happen. Science enthusiasts everywhere can look forward to future announcements and hopefully realize their own dream of going beyond. It will take many minds from different disciplines to make strides together, but with so much impressive work already achieved, it seems these dreams are growing ever closer.