Could we reuse any ISS modules for a Mars mission?

Recycling is great, but sometimes it’s easier just to start from scratch…


Asked by: Frank Pol, Taupo, New Zealand

It’s extremely unlikely. The ISS components were not designed for the kinds of accelerations, or the amounts of radiation, experienced during interplanetary travel, and do not have adequate life support, power supply, fuel storage, docking systems or lander components. It would actually be much cheaper in the long run, and simpler, to build a Mars expedition vehicle from scratch.

Read more: