By Gloria Nosa
A new study has raised serious concerns about the long-term viability of human life on Mars, suggesting that the Red Planet’s harsh environment could pose significant threats to human health.
Researchers found that the combination of extreme radiation levels, reduced gravity, and thin, unbreathable atmosphere would severely strain the human body over time. Key risks include weakened immune systems, accelerated bone and muscle loss, and increased vulnerability to cancer due to high radiation exposure.
While technological advancements have made a manned mission to Mars seem closer than ever, scientists caution that surviving — and thriving — on the planet would require extensive medical, biological, and technological interventions. Prolonged exposure to Mars’ harsh conditions could lead to irreversible health consequences, the study warns.
“Our research shows that without major protective measures, the human body would undergo changes that could make long-term survival very difficult,” said one of the lead scientists involved in the study.
Despite these challenges, interest in Mars exploration remains high, with space agencies like NASA and private companies like SpaceX pushing forward with plans to send humans to the Red Planet within the next two decades. However, experts agree that understanding and mitigating the biological impacts will be crucial before humans can call Mars their second home.
