A science strategy for the human exploration of Mars
Publication Information
Washington, DC : National Academies Press, [2026]
Physical Description
xiv, 226 pages : illustrations (chiefly color), color maps ; 28 cm
Series
Summary
When astronauts set foot on Mars, it will be one of humanity's greatest milestones. These first steps will be the result of decades of research, engineering, and imagination coming together, marking the beginning of a new era of discovery on another planet. A Science Strategy for the Human Exploration of Mars identifies the highest-priority science objectives for the first human mission to Mars, placing the search for life at the top of the list. The report examines scientific opportunities across Mars' geology, climate, water and CO₂ cycles, dust storms, and the environmental factors affecting human health and biological systems. It evaluates four potential multi-mission campaign concepts and outlines how crew-led science, robotic tools, drilling, and sample return can work together to advance understanding of Mars and prepare for sustained human exploration.
Contents
- Introduction
- Defining the science for campaigns
- Campaigns
- Disciplinary science priorities
- Putting science in the Moon to Mars architecture
- Appendixes. A. Statement of task
- B. Panel on Astrobiology : context for science traceability matrix
- C. Panel on Atmospheric Science and Space Physics : context for science traceability matrix
- D. Panel on Biological and Physical Sciences and Human Factors : context for science traceability matrix
- E. Panel on Geosciences : context for science traceability matrix
- F. Implications of artificial intelligence for human Mars exploration
- G. If life is found
- H. acronyms and abbreviations
- I. Committee and staff biographical information
- J. Science traceability matrices for panels.