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Use of the local resources on Mars could reduce the cost of life support significantly. Theoretically, Closed Ecological Systems (CES) isolated from surroundings and functioning on the basis of a closed cycle of matter transformation are the most reliable systems for life support in open space or on the surface of non-terrestrial bodies such as the Moon or Mars. But these systems require a relatively high initial mass (which is a critical factor in space flight) in comparison to supply-based systems. In addition CESs are a useful scientific abstraction though they have never been reached in reality. To minimize the cost of life support on Mars, we need to find scenarios and technologies such as a Martian Greenhouse (MG) which are based on use of the planet’s indigenous sources of energy and materials (natural illumination, carbon dioxide, water, nutrient elements for plants in the planetary soil). Our initial analysis shows that such approaches are possible and cost effective.

Growth Temperatures And Lighting Intensity Are Key Factors That Directly Impact The Design, Engineering, And Horticultural Practices Of Sustainable Life-Support Systems For Future Long-Term Space Missions. The Effects Of Exposure Of Lettuce (Cv. Flandria), Radish (Cv. Cherry Bomb Ii). And Green Onion (Cv. Kinka) Plants To Controlled Environment Temperatures (Constant Day/Night Temperature Of 22, 25, Or 28 °C) And Lighting Intensities (8.6, 17.2, Or 25.8 Mol M−2 D−1 Photosynthetic Photon Flux [Ppf]) At Elevated Co2 (1200 µMol Mol−1) Was Investigated To Ascertain Overall Yield Responses. Following 35 Days Growth, The Yields Of Lettuce Indicated That Increasing The Growing Temperature From 22 To 28°C Slightly Increased The Edible Fresh Mass Of Individual Plants. However, Even Though Lettuce Plants Grown Under High Ppf Had The Highest Fresh Mass, The Resultant Increase In The Incidence And Severity Of Tipburn Reduced The Overall Quality Of The Lettuce Head.