Planetary Geology topic outline - Terraforming.

Interesting reading: Thomas-Kerpta & others, 1998, Bacterial mineralization patterns in basaltic aquifers: Implications for possible life in martian meteorite ALH84001; Geology, v. 26, p. 1031-1034.

Good summary topic for this course: forces a synthesis, engages interest.

Planetary engineering, applied planetology, terraforming : all share goal of purposeful alteration of planetary bodies surface conditions so favorable to life. Science or fantasy?

Major questions:

• for what forms of life (microbes to humans quite a span)?
• in what time frame?
• what resources are needed, and are they available?
• what energy sources are needed and are they available?
• to what degree can we control, direct changes vs. simply initiate them?
• with or without supporting technology (John Carter and Mars air pumps). Colonization & planetary engineering.
• what are associated ethical issues?

Focus on Mars. Link to reading.

• hard vs. soft (bio-) engineering.
• what are major obstacles to establishing life on Mars?
  • lack of N2.
  • lack of atmosphere.
• whats the plan?
  • establish atmosphere.
  • generate tailored cocktail on earth.
  • hard engineering (mirrors).
  • establish simple hardy life forms (sit back and wait?).
• your assessment of feasability?

Other planetary bodies might 'terraform'?

Gaia cocktail?

For next time: Develop a short proposal (<1 page) for an exploratory mission to a planetary body (other than earth). Include in it the following:

• Planetary body to be visited.
• If a lander is involved, site visited.
• What sensors will be on board.
• The scientific significance of the information being sought.
• Expected or possible results.

Return to index page for planetary geology. Return to Harmon's home page.