Going to Mars

If you had the chance to go to Mars, would you? What if this was your dream? The dream you’ve had since you were a child?

Your chance is here. A group of people are actually preparing for just such a trip. A one way trip. And there lies the kicker. You would leave everything behind—your family, your home, the world you know—to be the first inhabitants on another planet.

Mars One plans to “establish a permanent human settlement on Mars in 2023.” http://www.mars-one.com/en/about-mars-one/about-mars-one   Here's a rendition of what the settlement should look like in 2024 when the second group arrives.

Credit: Mars One / Bryan Versteeg

This project has engendered a lot of interest because over 78,000 people applied to go within two weeks of the announcement back in April. First they’ll send cargo—food, supplies, equipment to build the habitat—then the humans. Four at a time, once very two years. I can't imagine what the selection process will be, especially with so many applicants. 

What would it take to set off on such an adventure? The Mars One website has a very extensive list of qualifications. Major requirements include resiliency, adaptability, curiosity, ability to trust, and creativity/resourcefulness.

Periodically, I’ve blogged about pioneers and the thrill of adventuring into space. I write about space travel, but I never really thought about all the consequences. Like never returning to Earth. Never holding my husband, children, grandchildren again. Then there are things like once you get into the spaceship, you'll never breathe fresh air again. Never walk through forests, swim in the lake/ocean, feel the grass under your bare toes.

So knowing all that, would you go? They’re still taking applicants.