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This paper will demonstrate design of a Mars transit/surface habitat, beginning with composition of the private living spaces, using established proportioning systems. The living spaces will be used as basis for the overall design of a habitation module transported to low Earth orbit individually by a Shuttle type vehicles, or as a fully integrated spacecraft in an Energiya class HLLV. The high degree of order achieved will enable full assimilation of all systems necessary to sustain six crew members for approximately 1000 days and provide living space greater than that currently recommended for long duration missions.

This study proposes that planetary protection issues, especially forward and back contamination, mandate thoughtful site operations and organization planning for human expeditions to Mars or to other planets. Planetary protection, while primarily concerned with contamination, also relates to prevention of physical damage to the site and is not merely an aesthetic issue. It involves preservation of visible geomorphologic features necessary for identification of structures and processes that may lead to water and/or life bearing or fossiliferous strata, as well as providing geological information regarding the natural history of the planet. The study shall explain how careful planning, site operations and organization may increase the efficiency of the outpost, as additions are completed and new components installed. What this will mean for the explorer/astronaut is everything that is needed to support the outpost will have a definitive “place” before arrival.