Horizon Season 2014 Episode 3 Man on Mars - Mission to the Red Planet

In the Horizon season 2014 episode 3 titled "Man on Mars - Mission to the Red Planet", viewers are taken on a journey exploring the potential of mankind finally establishing a permanent presence on Mars. The episode delves into the many challenges involved in undertaking a mission of this scale while showcasing some of the latest technological advancements that may make this possible.

The episode features interviews with some of the leading space experts, including Buzz Aldrin, the second man to step on the moon, and Robert Zubrin, who has spearheaded the Mars Society, dedicated to exploring the possibilities of colonizing Mars. The experts discuss the many challenges that need to be overcome in order for a manned mission to Mars to be successful.

One of the major hurdles is the length of the journey. The trip to Mars currently takes around 6-9 months, which means that astronauts will need to be able to survive in space for an extended period. The episode takes a closer look at the effects of long duration space travel on the human body and explores some of the current strategies for mitigating these effects.

The episode also delves into the technical challenges of building a habitat on Mars that can sustain human life. Although there have been significant breakthroughs in recent years, such as 3D printing technology, manufacturing and transporting large structures to Mars is still incredibly difficult. The experts also discuss the potential use of resources on Mars to help build the habitat, such as extracting water from the soil.

Another aspect of the episode explores the psychological effects of being confined in a small space over an extended period. Astronauts will need to undergo rigorous psychological training to prepare them for long-duration space travel and life on a hostile planet. The episode showcases some of the technologies and strategies being developed to keep astronauts sane and happy while on the mission.

The episode also covers the financial aspects of such a massive project and explores the potential commercial opportunities of a manned mission to Mars. Private companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin are making significant strides towards making space travel more affordable and accessible, which could potentially make a manned mission to Mars more feasible in the not-too-distant future.

Overall, the "Man on Mars - Mission to the Red Planet" episode of Horizon provides a fascinating insight into what could be one of the greatest achievements in human history. While there are undoubtedly many challenges to overcome, the episode leaves viewers with a sense of optimism and excitement at the possibility of finally establishing a human presence on Mars.