There is consensus among many scientific studies surrounding Mars that the red planet once had generous amounts of liquid water on its surface. Thus, it is also believed that it must have had an atmosphere thick enough to trap sufficient heat from the sun. However, these promising conditions have since vanished, making place for an intolerable cold and a very thin atmosphere almost exclusively composed of carbon dioxide.

Even though Mars is cited amongst those planets classified as Earth analog, multiple challenges remain until humankind may possibly colonize the red planet. As a mission to Mars is expected to be undertaken in the course of the upcoming decades, the biggest questions are put in the center of attention – Are we truly and sufficiently prepared for a mission to Mars? How do scientists plan on overcoming problems such as the lack of warmth, a too-thin atmosphere and a weak magnetic field? Which countries or groups of people have a claim of ownership on Mars? What are the health concerns of a mission to such a far-away planet? What kind of effects would living in a Mars colony have on the human organism?

These and many more questions will be answered by our experts and during our Fishbowl discussion, where we will have the opportunity to learn more about a complex and highly interesting topic!