Two scientists have suggested that human colonisation of other worlds should start with a one-way trip to Mars.

In the current issue of the Journal of Cosmology, Paul Davies and Dirk Schulze-Makuch say that it makes sense to send astronauts to stay on Mars. This is because space travel is enormously expensive, and the largest cost for a journey to Mars would be the return trip. The researchers also say that this would help to start a human colony on Mars, possibly using the planet’s large ice caves.

A trip to Mars with today’s technology would take around six months. Astronauts would face a reduced life expectancy because of the dangers of space travel. However, the report’s authors claim that their surveys show that many people would be willing to volunteer for the trip, for reasons of “scientific curiosity” and a “spirit of adventure”.

Would you go on a one-way trip to Mars? Take part in our poll at www.firstnews.co.uk!