In two new papers published in Mars, The International Journal of Mars Science and Exploration (The Mars Journal), Donald Rapp reviews the current state of our understanding of life support and radiation safety for human missions to Mars.
In "Mars life support systems", he concludes that current plans for life support for human missions contain optimistic assumptions regarding the degree of recycling and reliability that can be achieved, and the amount of mass that life support systems may require.
In "Radiation effects and shielding requirements in human missions to the moon and Mars", he compares and contrasts the levels of radiation shielding required for human missions to the moon and Mars and finds that currently planned missions to both bodies are not without potentially serious radiation risks.
The Mars Journal is a peer reviewed open access journal focused on Mars science, exploration and policy.
