Martian Infrastructure

If we are to continue funding our exploration into space we must begin to seriously consider taking our exploration to the next level. Ultimately, we hope to step off of our planet on to other worlds. To do this we must begin to invest funding toward the establishment of infrastructure on planets within our reach.

Irrigation

In early observations of the planet Mars astronomers incorrectly assumed the existence of channels on the surface of the red planet. Many speculated what they were seeing was evidence of a Martian civilization. Of course it was later found that Mars was a dead planet with very little atmosphere primarily consisting of poisonous carbon dioxide. However, the idea of channeling water on the surface of Mars is not as far-fetched an idea as once assumed.

Pipelines

If it is found that water does exist beneath the surface of the Martian polar ice caps future human colonies there may give merit to the old assumption of canals on the surface of Mars. It is not possible for water to exist in a liquid state on the surface of Mars due to the low temperature and reduced atmospheric pressure. However, future human colonies on Mars may find it beneficial to have water pipelines leading from subterranean reservoirs to other settlements on the surface of the planet. Pipelines to facilitate the movement of water would be much like petroleum pipelines here on earth.

Mineral Refinement and Structures

With the advancement of our robotics program the most logical next step in our overall mission to Mars would be to send robots capable of mining, refining and fabricating the vast deposits of iron oxide into structural components. Other robots designed as builders could erect structures for future manned missions to Mars.

Energy

Mars is cold, dry and far from the sun. The amount of solar power generated there is enough to power small rovers. However, could it be enough to sustain larger machines needed to facilitate the building of infrastructure? Future priorities regarding our exploration of Mars should be redirected towards potential energy sources on the planet. So far, viable energy sources on Mars are limited to weak sources of solar and wind.

We have advanced beyond the point which our leaders, as well as the general public, are beginning to question the viability of investing more funds in our space program. It is important for scientists to find evidence supporting the existence of life on other planets. But this is not the only reason to explore space. The first colonies on other planets will be inhabited by robots. They will be funded by governments and private sector investors prioritizing infrastructure and industry. For talented and brilliant NASA scientists, this should not be as difficult a concept to grasp as it seems to be.