Mars Toxic Dust Might Make Human Exploration Difficult

Various countries and space agencies around the world are looking to send humans to Mars, but the planet’s toxic dust might deter these efforts. A new study on the Red Planet now proves that there exist substances in Mars’ atmosphere that can be dangerous for humans and spacecraft.

Human Exploration Of Mars Might Be Marred By Toxic Dust

Space is a vast expanse of unexplored wonders, and humans seem to have their eyes fixed on Mars as a major point for these explorations. Some even argue that the Red Planet might be the next home for humans, and are hoping to develop a civilization there in the years ahead.

However, our efforts to explore the Red Planet are currently through various rovers. These rovers carry scientific instruments that are necessary during their exploration missions to test and discover the surface of the Red Planet.

A new study might slow down efforts to send humans to Mars as it identifies some health hazards that are lurking in the planet’s atmosphere.

Just like the Moon, Mars’ atmosphere is home to toxic dust that contains substances that are harmful to humans. These substances include silica, gypsum, and various metals that, if inhaled, will cause harm to the lungs and respiratory tracts.

The astronauts on the Apollo mission to the Moon reported that the dust on the Moon caused coughing, running eyes, and irritation to the throats. This lunar dust is dense, unlike the Mars toxic dust, which, according to the study, is finer and can easily penetrate the bloodstream.

Proper Preparation Is Needed For A Human-Crewed Mars Mission

To prepare for a Mars mission with humans onboard, scientists need to test its atmosphere. This can be possible by capturing and recovering samples from rovers present on the planet.

There are already plans to recover various samples that the Mars rovers have collected over time. This sample recovery mission might take place in 2030 or beyond.

Only after recovering the various samples can we properly test and ascertain how safe the planet is for humans. The study also pinpoints the need for special suits that can protect astronauts from exposure to the Martian toxic dust.

Over the coming years, data collected by the various rovers on Mars will help to shed more light on the planet.