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Sending along plenty of resources - If astronauts agree, should we save a lot of money and give them a one-way ticket to Mars?

Asked by mattbrowne (31732points) April 25th, 2009

The scenario includes transport of plenty of resources that will last for at least 50 years (including the capability to use local Marsian resources). The astronauts will live on Mars permanently and grow old there. The mission will involve at least 20 people, both male and female including couples. The restriction is not to have kids on Mars. Birth control is critical. There will be communication with Earth including remote help if needed such as remote surgery (telesurgery).

Why would people want to do that? Because they are explorers, I think. Astronauts are like people who sailed across the Atlantic to stay in North America. Funding such a one way trip would be so much easier than funding a return trip.

What is your opinion about this scenario? Would you prefer no trip at all or a return trip?

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