User blog:SpaceF/Infographic progress

Since our group separated into 3 smaller research groups, each investigating a different stage of our space mission, we thought it would be a good idea to separate the infographic into 3 parts, too. The first stage is genetic engineering of selected plants (eskimo potatoes, peas and spirulina) in order to make them resistant to harsh conditions. Thanks to this we will be able to grow crops on Mars. We're aiming to include the specific genes that we will insert into the plant DNA.

The second stage involves designing a closed-loop ife support system compirsed of four compartments (mimicking the MELISSA project) that works on turning waste products (e.g. from the crew/inedible food) into minerals to power plant growth. These serve as sources for food, oxygen and water. Each compartment is facilitated by various bacteria and algae with Spirulina being used in compartment four.

The last stage of our mission is based on the long term plan of terraforming Mars. This would allow us to grow food on the planet without the need of a dome or hydrogen ponds. For that, we stated the different compounds a plant needs to grow and develop (i.e. liquid water, hotter temperature, O2, CO2, magmetic field to protect from harmful radiation, nutrients from the soil...)> For each of them, a big-scale solution can be considered and will appear graphically on the infographic. They involve for example thermonuclear weapons to melt the icecap and release the CO2 to create an atmosphere and provide liquid water. A giant dipole can be set up at a specific point of the planet to restaure a magnetic field. Finally, bio-engineered organisms (modified metabolism can be sent on the planet to release O2).

Rough sketch of our infographic: