Current Status, Challenges and Prospects of Human Survival on Mars: A Literature Review

This literature review provides a comprehensive examination of the current understanding of human survival on Mars, focusing on key challenges and potential solutions. The review begins by discussing the harsh Martian environment, which includes extreme temperatures, low atmospheric pressure, and high levels of radiation, all of which pose significant obstacles for human habitation. It further explores the technological advancements required to establish a sustainable human presence, such as life support systems, energy generation, and efficient transportation methods. Physiologically, humans would face challenges like muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and the effects of prolonged radiation exposure, which would require innovative countermeasures. Additionally, psychological challenges, including isolation and the potential for mental health issues, would need to be addressed through robust support systems and strategies. The review also considers the social and ethical implications of sending humans to Mars, such as the potential for inequality and the risk of contamination. By integrating research from various scientific fields, this review highlights the complex nature of Mars colonization and identifies critical areas for future research and technological development.

Authors

Institutions

Publication Details

Journal
Highlights in Science Engineering and Technology
Published
2025-07-11
DOI
https://doi.org/10.54097/cankry17
Primary Topic
Space Exploration and Technology
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
Controls
|||
ALL TIME
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
article

Current Status, Challenges and Prospects of Human Survival on Mars: A Literature Review

Zheng Zhou
Highlights in Science Engineering and Technology
Space Exploration and Technology
article

Current Status, Challenges and Prospects of Human Survival on Mars: A Literature Review

Zheng Zhou
article en

Abstract

This literature review provides a comprehensive examination of the current understanding of human survival on Mars, focusing on key challenges and potential solutions. The review begins by discussing the harsh Martian environment, which includes extreme temperatures, low atmospheric pressure, and high levels of radiation, all of which pose significant obstacles for human habitation. It further explores the technological advancements required to establish a sustainable human presence, such as life support systems, energy generation, and efficient transportation methods. Physiologically, humans would face challenges like muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and the effects of prolonged radiation exposure, which would require innovative countermeasures. Additionally, psychological challenges, including isolation and the potential for mental health issues, would need to be addressed through robust support systems and strategies. The review also considers the social and ethical implications of sending humans to Mars, such as the potential for inequality and the risk of contamination. By integrating research from various scientific fields, this review highlights the complex nature of Mars colonization and identifies critical areas for future research and technological development.

Highlights in Science Engineering and TechnologyVol. 147
Fujian Normal University (CN)
Openalex Percentile: Top 70%
Space Exploration and Technology
AI Navigator

Ask Laika to Summarize, Analyze, and Connect papers live on the map.

Summarize Papers & Methodologies

Extract key findings, datasets, and comparative methods across publications.

Benchmark Rankings & Visual Analytics

Rank top research institutions, authors, funders, topics, and journals by Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) and paper volume with instant charts.

Connect Distant Disciplines

Bridge topological clusters on the map to find hidden collaborative intersections.