Designing for Mars

Abstract

This presentation provides an overview of the habitability factors that affect the design of space habitats for long-duration spaceflight missions. Components of habitability that affect human adaptation to an isolated and confined environment are discussed. These elements are presented as part of a larger group of environmental factors, aesthetics, and habitat architecture. Design recommendations are provided to support practicing human factors specialists, architects, and engineers in creating an environment that promotes productivity and supports crew performance. A comparison to a current Mars analog environment is included to illustrate the findings and recommendations for future habitat designs. Current research efforts implementing these recommendations are discussed.