Frederick_2008abstr

Copyright © 2008 by Gus Frederick. Published by The Mars Society with permission.

LONG-RANGE PLANNING FOR TERRAFORMING MARS

A CALL FOR URGENCY

George Drake

and

Gus Frederick

Abstract

What we're up against: Current Estimates of Time-line are 300 to 900 years to terraform Mars. We're not responding (adequately) to either on- or off- planet threats. If we were to start today, we'd need more than300 years of relative tranquility on Earth to succeed. Sustained and vigorous effort is needed. If not well along before things get bad, we won't be able to get started at all.

Why A 500 Year Terraforming Plan Now? Many don't believe in the Climate Crisis – We'll not spend time on this, other than dismissively. Many think that our only concern should be with whether mankind will survive. Many think a future in space is automatic. No Security Off Planet Threats. On Planet Threats – We’ll spend our time debunking this idea. Conclusion: We've got to get serious about this!