Since man has decided to target Mars, one of the biggest problems is to look for a sustainable source of energy. According to recent research and professionals the geothermal energy potentially boiling beneath the Mars’ crust may be an answer to supplying future colonies. In this article, the author looks at the possibilities of using geothermal energy on Mars, and how this may shape life on the planet.
To solve everyday problems and maintain the colony environment on Mars, a stable supply of energy is needed.
In his article from Universe Magazine, the author points out the fact that Mars contains no fossil fuels. The environmental conditions greatly vary with temperature sometimes dropping below -100°C; heating remains a crucial factor in survival; therefore, energy forms a very important component of this ecosystem. Solar power and wind power are two technologies that have been discussed above but have some shortcomings.
He added that solar panels work less efficiently on Mars because the Red Planet is much further from the Sun and merely receives one and a half to three times less sunlight than Earth. Wind turbines are problematic because the Martian atmosphere delivers substantially less energy compared to the Earth’s atmosphere. These constraints serve as the basis for justification of other sources of energy.
Been thinking of what could be an effective source of power for the colonization of the red planet, well I came across geothermal energy as a possible solution. According to ThinkGeoEnergy, Mars’ internal heat and possible water deposits below its surface indicate that geothermal energy is plausible. This kind of energy source may be accessible by drilling up to about 1000m. Several principles make geothermal energy suitable.
To use geothermal energy on Mars sophisticated drilling technology and instruments are needed.
Unlike solar and wind energy, it is always available no matter the weather and time of the day or year. Moreover, the referencing ability of geothermal energy is the capability of supplying both electrical power and heat for human settlements on Mars. This makes it a holistic solution for energy problems on the Martian terrain.
The first step would be the drilling of deep wells to reach the geothermal reservoirs Summary Given its attractive characteristics the use of geothermal energy is expected to grow shortly. Geothermal plants can then transform the heat through turbines into electricity, should they have already been set up. Much of this technology is currently applied on Earth and with some modifications can be applied on Mars. As with any investment, there is great potential but these have their obstacles to be met.
It should be noted that the Martian environment is severe and the drilling equipment must operate at these conditions. Moreover, it would be a problem to supply the necessary equipment from the Earth to Mars. Traditional oil and gas exploration methods are impeded by these challenges, but with improved space engineering and technology, geothermal potential on Mars is achieved.
The long-term advantage of utilizing geothermal energy on Mars is well worth the while
Not only, the initial colonization but also future enhancements and industrial relations can be served by it. The requirements for energy will rise as the colony does, and geothermal energy as a source is malleable and functional to fulfill these requirements. This makes it a solution that is sustainable and capable of scaling up in the future as the colonization of Mars rolls forward. It is a clean and renewable energy source and results in far fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the utilization of fossil fuels.
Harnessing geothermal energy on Mars makes sense for the mission of deploying an environmentally sound colony on another planet. Besides, it makes a cent on the point that the energy demand is appropriately fulfilled without having a heel on the environment of the colonized planet. Product: Geothermal Energy that is found beneath the crust of the planet Mars promises to be a solution to the energy demands of occupying the planet.
Since it is renewable, cheap,p and can greatly contribute to planetary energy needs, Geothermal energy could help fuel the dream of colonizing other planets such as Mars. While chatting with Mars and experimenting with ways for sustainable living, it can be the hidden boiling energy beneath the Martian crust.
