Research has revealed that dust storms on Mars could lead to respiratory problems and increased disease risks. Scientists emphasize the importance of preventing Mars dust from entering living spaces and removing the dust from the environment using filtration systems.

A recent study by the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC) highlighted the potential of dust storms on Mars to cause respiratory issues and increase disease risks. These dust storms can disrupt electronic systems and accumulate on solar panels, hindering energy production.

SPACECRAFT RENDERED INOPERABLE

In both 2018 and 2022, NASA’s Opportunity rover and InSight lander became inoperable due to dust storms. Researchers warn that these storms pose even greater risks for manned missions. NASA and the China National Space Administration (CNSA) are planning to send astronauts to Mars in the coming years. During these missions, crews are expected to work on the surface for months while setting up long-term habitats.

IMPACT OF DUST ON HUMAN HEALTH STUDIED

Dr. Justin L. Wang and the team from the USC School of Medicine, who led the study, thoroughly examined the effects of Mars dust on human health.

Researchers from NASA’s Johnson Space Center, UCLA Space Medicine Center, and the Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department at the University of Colorado also contributed to the study.

Dr. Wang pointed out that the iron dust derived from basalt and nanophase iron abundant on the Mars surface could lead to respiratory diseases.

PREVENTING MARS DUST

Researchers stress that the most important measure is to prevent Mars dust from entering living spaces and to remove the dust from the environment using filtration systems.

NASA and other space agencies are working on special protective coatings, electrostatic sprays, and new technologies to remove dust to mitigate such health risks.

As the Artemis Program and future Mars missions progress, significant advancements in space medicine are expected to occur.