Moving to Mars at the Design Museum: Five things to see at the exhibition

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Zoe Paskett18 October 2019

It’s sometimes tempting to wonder about shooting off to another planet, but most of us will dismiss the thought pretty quickly.

For some, it’s the biggest question there is. The Design Museum’s new exhibition, Moving to Mars, has more than 200 pieces delving into the red planet’s potential for life.

In the show, we get the scientific perspectives of astrophysicists and geologists as well as the practical concerns of astronauts, designers and activists. It’s immersive at every turn – they have even engineered it to smell like Mars.

Importantly, the exhibition asks questions not only of how we go about moving to a different planet, but also whether or not we should. Would it offer solutions to how we can live sustainably on Earth, or distract from the climate catastrophe we’re in the midst of now?

If you’re interested in exploring beyond our atmosphere, here are a few things to look out for:

The ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover

ESA rover models and prototypes
Ed Reeve

This roving robot is set to make its way to Mars in 2020. A joint project between the European Space Agency and Roscosmos, the Russian space agency, the rover’s job will be to look for evidence of life on Mars. The journey there will take nine months, and once the rover has landed on the surface, it will start collecting data by drilling downwards.

Its cameras enable it to see in 3D like humans and the structure must be able to withstand temperatures of -120 degrees at night and up to 40 degrees during the day. You can see a full-scale model the rover going about its business in the foyer, and a more in-depth look at its inner workings at the start of the exhibition.

Space suits designed for memory and microgravity

One of the biggest problems that faces those travelling to Mars would be the loss of bone and muscle density in a low gravity environment. They would have to exercise for hours every day, and even this wouldn’t stop muscle atrophy. Designer Anna Talvi has created a bodysuit to help counteract this – the suit stimulates muscles that would normally be relaxed, acting as a sort of 'wearable gym’.

It’s not just about the physical effects though. Communication with Earth would be limited to non-instant messaging – no video or calls – and the landscape is barren and void of greenery, so the psychological impact would be great. Talvi has created perfumed gloves which can be imbued with scents personal to the wearer. You can try on her custom-made gloves, which smell of freshly cut grass and her favourite horse.

A full-scale model of a Martian home

If we really are going to make the move, it’s got to be about living, not just surviving. Various architects have imagined how future Mars colonisers could make the planet their home, with a room dedicated to ideas on what structures to build on the surface. Xavier De Kestelier and Hassell Studios have created a full-scale model of the interior of what one of these would look like, with a panoramic view of the Martian landscape. Visitors can step inside and experience the 3D-printed habitat.

A functioning hydroponic farm

(Felix Speller for the Design Museum )
Felix Speller for the Design Museum

The lack of water and nutrients on Mars is the first hurdle when it comes to feeding people. Farming will rely on materials brought along from Earth and hydroponic farming is one of the best options. You can have a look at the kits in action – they’re good for spinach and salads, as well as peppers and strawberries, so you’ll get your five-a-day.

While you’re there, keep an eye out for the lightweight boot made of fungus grown from human sweat. Waste not, want not!

Join the 2100 expedition to Mars

The year is 2100. After you’ve learnt all about what it takes to get ready for the journey, it’s time for take-off. Thomas Ermacora and SuperUber’s immersive animated film gives you the astronauts’ view, from the spaceship to the planet’s surface. As well as examining the different challenges and discoveries you would face, it shows how daily life could be – there’s even a spa for some Earthly comforts.

Moving to Mars runs at the Design Museum from October 18-February 23, designmuseum.org

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