[IndyTiger]

I think it’s doable too, but have an idea that would, in my opinion, greatly increase the chances for a successful mission to Mars. Make it a one-way trip. That way, all the resources of the spacecraft would be geared towards getting there and setting up a colony, rather than storing fuel and supplies for a return trip to earth. I realize that some might have moral questions about such a mission, but I am sure there would be explorers willing to do this.

[cripplecreek]

Elderly astronauts for early scouting missions.

[P-40]

Make it a one-way trip.

Plenty of people on death row would probably jump at the chance.

[Ditto]

I realize that some might have moral questions about such a mission, but I am sure there would be explorers willing to do this.

Jihad Astronauts?

[Ragnar54]

Or, alternatively, send some spacecraft containing only fuel and supplies in advance of the trip. Such cargo could be sent with existing technology (in no particular hurry, using the most economical orbit and means of propulsion) long before a manned craft was ready. A supply line of ships sailing the solar wind could be established in anticipation of a large colony.