So you have decided to make the move to the Red Planet. Congratulations - and welcome to a community of pioneers. Here is what Mission Control tells every first-time colonist before they board.
1. Pick Your Neighborhood Before Your Launch Window
Transfer windows to Mars open roughly every 26 months and the trip takes about seven. That means you buy first and arrive later. Our Mars area guide covers Jezero Crater, Valles Marineris, Olympus Mons and Utopia Planitia.
2. Get Pre-Approved for an Interplanetary Mortgage
Lenders want to see two years of stable income and a valid radiation-exposure certificate. Rates are currently favorable for 30-Mars-year fixed terms (that is about 56 Earth years, so read the fine print).
3. Understand the Gravity Adjustment
At 38 percent Earth gravity you will feel lighter, jump higher and, for the first few weeks, bump your head on things. Most new colonists adapt in a month.
4. What to Pack
- Twelve months of personal items - resupply is not fast
- Something green to look at
- Patience for the comms delay when you call home
Questions? Hail Mission Control and we will walk you through it.