Ever wanted to live on Mars? Now what about if it was a one way ticket, no chance of coming back to earth? That’s what Mars One is planning for four individuals in the next 10 years. 

So What is Mars One?

Founded in 2011, Mars One is a Dutch, not-for-profit foundation that will soon be sending permanent inhabitants to colonize Mars in the year 2025.  In the next few years Mars One will be establishing the living quarters for the selected applicants on Mars.  After the candidates have been selected, they will spend the years leading up to their departure in training.  But even those of us on earth can be a part of their journey and witness what is happening; they will be turning the exploration into a documentary for everyone to experience. 

What’s the Appeal?

For most people, it’s hard to wrap your head around why someone might willingly want to leave their life here on earth.  In his book, The Martian Chronicles, Ray Bradbury says “It is good to renew one’s wonder… Space travel has again made children of us all.” Perhaps this is one of the reasons why there were over 200,000 applicants for the Mars One exploration.  The Mars One applicant list has been narrowed down to 100 people as of now and each candidate has their own take on why this trip is essential. 

Here are some quotes form the Mars One top 100 candidates:

“It’s not just to be a part of history but to inspire people around the world.”

“The colonization of Mars is the adventure of the century.”

“This is our chance to get the world excited about space again.”

“If we can look up from earth and know that human begins are living on another planet, will we ever again be able to tell ourselves that there is anything we can’t do?”

“I want to contribute directly to Mankind’s confident expansion into the solar system. Which we have to do if we are going to survive in the long term.”

“This will be my legacy.”

You may think they’re crazy, but the people applying to go on the Mars One mission are sure that what they are doing is for the greater good. 

• Author
• Recent Posts

Caroline Robinson

Student at Southern Methodist University

Caroline Robinson is graduating May 2015 from Southern Methodist University with a major in Public Relations and Strategic Communications, with a minor in Business Administration.
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carolinerobinson1

Latest posts by Caroline Robinson (see all)

• The Rising Popularity of Music Festivals - April 21, 2015
• Serial Podcast Gets Reinvention - April 16, 2015
• Hollywood’s Age of Marvel Movies - April 13, 2015