LUNA October 2015 | Page 6

Mars, the fourth planet of our solar system may be the next destination for mankind. The six months trip with conventional rocket system will put mankind on the surface of Mars. But the search for a more compatible place is still going on. This is probably due to the Mars atmosphere. Mars atmosphere is highly un breathable with 96% carbon di oxide. Second point is the surface gravity of the Mars, which is more than half than in Earth. The microgravity is not suitable for human body. The most important point is the lack of water in Mars. The human which will stay for a longer duration in Mars, will need pressurized cabins with water producing chemical reaction system with Mars atmospheric components. The disadvantage of such places forced the scientists to search for another suitable home for mankind.

Europa, one of the Galilean moons of Jupiter comes out as one of the strong candidate for mankind next home so far. With smooth surface condition & less amount of craters, Europa became the study point with the extensive study of the planet with Voyager 2 & Galileo spacecrafts. The smooth surface & other data, scientists believe that an ocean of liquid water may flow below the surface. as water is the most essential element of life, scientist believe that small sort of life may exist below the surface of Europa.

MARS OR EUROPA: THE NEXT DESTINATION