Next Stop Mars - The Why, How, and When of Human Missions (Broché)

Since the 19th century, a possible human mission to Mars has been the subject of science fiction, engineering and scientific study and, since the 1950s, a goal of national space programs. Next Stop Mars looks at the why, how, and when such a mission could be achieved. After first covering previously planned but never executed missions, the book details the mission design, preparation and equipment necessary to send astronauts on this interplanetary journey, including using the Moon as a base.
Among other issues, the environment that will be experienced on Mars, mobility on the planet, the lifestyle that can be expected, and the mental and physical demands on the explorers are all discussed. Finally, what next ? Some futuristic possibilities are brought into the story that could lead to visits to - and possibly even the colonization of - Mars.