(ORDO NEWS) — The idea, proposed by botanist and ecologist Paul Smith of the University of Bristol (UK), suggests that the inhabitants of Mars, whether they be colonists or astronaut explorers, could build small nature reserves protected from the harsh Martian conditions by strong transparent domes.
It should be something like bubbles on Mars, in which a forest would be located, and where one could walk among the trees and shrubs.
As the scientist comments, the “extraterrestrial nature reserve” will take the form of a “greenhouse-like forest bubble” and allow people to feel like part of their home on Mars, which can also be a source of food and raw materials for the first inhabitants.
Professor Paul Smith published their proposal in the International Journal of Astrobiology, laying out the basics and addressing some of the many challenges this ambitious project will face.
“If population growth is not controlled, natural areas must be sacrificed,” Smith wrote in his study.
“The alternative is to create more habitats by terraforming Mars.”
Obviously, Mars is significantly different from Earth: it is colder, drier and has a completely different atmosphere.
The article includes a description of the problems that colonizers on Mars will face, including a harsh, life-threatening climate, as well as radiation and weak sunlight compared to Earth.
It’s impossible to predict which species will thrive in one of Smith’s giant Martian terrariums. Although it is possible that certain terrestrial life could adapt to life on the Red Planet.
For example, mushrooms, earthworms or spiders could live on Mars. Similarly, plants such as juniper and birch can survive in low sunlight.
“Designers of an extraterrestrial nature reserve must consider species as ecological mechanisms that can be assembled into functioning ecosystems,” writes Smith.
“Reforestation of the Earth is currently not possible, but new ecosystems can develop that function in unexpected ways.”
To do this, the expert proposes to create about 20 hectares of forest park, carefully guarded under protective domes lit by mirrors, and allow evolution to choose a combination of creatures that will best adapt to harsh conditions.
It is important to note that Smith is not proposing to terraform the entire surface of Mars, but rather envisions these forests as small oases that will bring both emotional and practical benefits to future Mars colonists.
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