Humanity’s ambition to explore Mars is no longer a distant dream. In his thought-provoking book, Becoming Martian: How Living in Space Will Change Our Bodies and Minds, author Scott Solomon offers a comprehensive look at the biological and ethical challenges of establishing human life on the Red Planet. Solomon, a research biologist at Rice University, delves into how Martian conditions might alter human physiology and society.
The book begins with a historical perspective on our interest in Mars, noting that the quest for human settlement has gained momentum in recent years. With advancements in technology, sending humans to Mars appears more feasible than ever. Yet, the journey raises significant questions about how we will adapt to a planet that is fundamentally different from Earth.
Solomon outlines the immediate effects of space travel on the human body. These include conditions such as anaemia, muscle wastage, and loss of bone density, all exacerbated by microgravity. As he explains, these physiological changes will have profound implications for life on Mars. For instance, childbirth could become exceedingly hazardous due to reduced gravity, increasing the likelihood of complications such as pelvic fractures. As a result, Solomon posits that all births on Mars would likely require C-sections.
The book highlights the risks posed by Martian living conditions to human health. Solomon asserts that the isolation of a Martian colony could weaken the immune system, making contact with individuals from Earth perilous. He argues, “More than any other factor, the risk of disease transmission may be the wedge that drives the separation between people on the two planets.” This concern leads to the conclusion that Martians might adopt a vegan lifestyle, as they would face challenges in keeping pets or consuming animal products.
The exploration of Mars also brings to light the psychological aspects of colonization. Solomon emphasizes the importance of group dynamics in early settlements. He suggests that the first exploratory teams should consist of an odd number of members to facilitate decision-making and minimize conflict. Furthermore, to ensure genetic diversity and sustainability, he recommends that initial colonies should comprise between 10,000 and 11,000 individuals.
One of the most significant points raised in the book is the need for private spaces within Martian colonies. Solomon criticizes the current lack of research into procreation, an essential component for long-term sustainability. He notes the backlash that followed a NASA scientist’s suggestion to provide soundproof spaces for privacy, underscoring the societal challenges that such proposals face.
Solomon’s writing is both accessible and intellectually rigorous. He effectively bridges the gap between biological research and the technical aspects of Mars exploration, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved. The book is well-researched, presenting various ethical viewpoints without bias, allowing readers to form their own opinions on the colonization of Mars.
In the epilogue, Solomon reveals his stance on the colonization debate, suggesting that humanity’s biological limitations, rather than technological shortcomings, may hinder our expansion to Mars. He raises profound questions about what it means to be human if we adapt ourselves through genetic engineering or evolutionary changes to thrive on another planet.
Becoming Martian stands out as a significant contribution to popular science literature, addressing critical issues related to space colonization. It serves as an engaging read for anyone interested in the future of humanity in space, combining scientific insight with ethical contemplation. This book is a must-read for those curious about the potential realities of Martian life and the challenges it presents.
