Argumentative Essay: Should The United States Travel To Mars?

The planet Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun in our solar system. It is named after the Roman god of war, and has been a point of interest for hundered of year because of its stark red color in the nighttime sky. After scientists successfully landed men on the moon, they set their next long-term goal to land on Mars. Plans have been made and a 500 day trip into deep space has been proposed. It will be the longest amount of time in space for a human and also they will not be in direct contact with Earth. There have been many doubts about whether or not people should travel to Mars. However, the United States should lead a mission to send humans to Mars because it will lead to advances in science and technology, Mars has water resources,

According to NASA 360 Vodcast, "Space exploration has inspired many inventions...one in ten inventions has been related to the space program." (Source #1). 1/10 of the advances in science and technology have been made in low Earth orbit or on the moon. Now, imagine the scientific and technological advancements scientists could make if a deep space mission were conducted. They will learn how to support a 500 day expedition away from earth, including food, water, oxygen, and other life essentials. Also, scientists can learn first-hand about what Mars is like and whether or not humans can live there in the future. They can analyze the trip to and from Mars and modify the shuttle for the next deep space

One of these concerns is the solar radiation. Since the astronauts are in deep space for around 500 days, they are at risk of solar radiation and its harmful effects on humans, nevertheless, Mars' magnetic field will protect the astronauts from the solar radiation and new technology for solar radiation protection in deep space is being tested on the ISS. Another major concern is the long-term effect of Mars gravity and zero gravity in space. While this concern is meaningful, companies such as Zero Gravity Solutions are working on finding ways to help the astronauts. Also, with proper care, the astronauts will not experience the possible symptoms of zero gravity. The final major concern is the cost. Consequently, he estimated cost is over $100 billion. While this is very expensive, it will be a long-term investment, and it will later benefit humans by gaining the possibility of colonizing Mars when future problems