Notes

That leaves Mars, the planet closest to Earth.
Mars: Exploring a New Frontier

Is Mars Red Hot? How Do You
Get to Mars?


2.MissiontoMars

Can people survive on Mars?
Scientists believe it is possible for humans to
survive on Mars. The atmosphere is mostly
carbon dioxide. However, scientists know how
to turn it into oxygen. The oxygen can be used
for breathing and also for making rocket fuel.
Another reason to pick Mars is that it has
water. There are ice caps at the north and
south poles of Mars. The atmosphere also
has some water vapor.
Additionally, the cycle of day and night on Mars
is only 40 minutes different than on Earth. It is
believed that humans could get used to this
small difference.
Still, Mars would be a challenging place to live.
It is too cold for humans to stay there without
special clothing and shelter. The atmospheric
pressure on Mars is also lower than on Earth.
It would cause a person’s blood to boil and
then freeze.
But these problems can be overcome. When
outside, people will have to wear space suits
for protection. They will have to carry their
own oxygen, like scuba divers.
People will also have to live in specially
designed shelters called habitats. These
habitats will control the pressure and
temperature. They will also have oxygen
for people to breathe. When there are dust
and sand storms, the habitats will provide
protection. They will also protect people
from harmful solar radiation.

1. How are scientists
exploring Mars?
In recent years, scientists have sent “rovers” to
Mars to explore the planet’s surface. The rovers
can collect soil samples and take pictures, but
scientists want that leaves Mars, the planet closest to Earth.
Mars: Exploring a New Frontier





easy. Astronauts have to be
away from their families and friends for a long
time. They have to live and work in a small space
capsule with other astronauts. The space is so
cramped that some travelers might get nervous.
Others might even feel a sense of panic.




Bones and muscles become
weaker because they do not have to carry the
body’s weight.



They must also be
prepared and take absolutely everything they
need with them. Additionally, they must be
able to fix equipment that breaks and handle
any emergency without




In outer space, there is no sunrise
and sunset, no day and night. Some people
cannot sleep normally under those conditions.





clearly. Lack
of sleep may also affect their emotions and
their health.

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