2025 - 10th Anniversary Year
Mars 2040
SPACE COMPETITION 2025
Instructions for the Mars Artificial Habitat Project
Objective: Design an innovative 2D or 3D model of a futuristic artificial habitat for Mars and write a 500-word report addressing key design elements.
Part 1: Creating the Model
- Choose Your Medium
- Digital: Use software like Blender, SketchUp, or TinkerCAD for a detailed 3D model. Alternatively, use drawing tools like Adobe Illustrator for a 2D design.
- Physical: Create a model using cardboard, clay, or other materials for a hands-on approach.
- Design Features to Include
- Living Quarters: Ensure adequate space for residents with individual and communal areas.
- Workspaces: Include facilities for research, maintenance, and communication.
- Life Support Systems: Add sections for oxygen production, water recycling, and food growth.
- Protection: Incorporate shielding against Mars’ harsh environment, such as radiation or dust storms.
- Transportation: Add access points for vehicles or ports for external transport.
- Labelling
- Clearly label each part of your habitat with a brief description of its function.
Part 2: Writing the Report
Write a concise report of approximately 500 words that answers the following questions:
- Name of the Habitat
Provide a creative and meaningful name for your design. - Size and Capacity
Specify the dimensions of your habitat and the maximum number of inhabitants it can support. - Purpose of Each Part
Describe the purpose and functionality of key areas, such as living quarters, workspaces, and life support systems. - Design Rationale
Explain why you chose this design, including factors like sustainability, efficiency, and adaptability to Mars’ environment.
Part 3: Submission
- Model: Submit image exports of your digital model or photos of your physical model. If submitting multiple images, please compress them into a ZIP file before uploading.
- Report: Submit a typed document in PDF or Word format (.pdf or .docx).
Reminder: Submit your entry before the deadline – 31st March 2025!
Judging Criteria for the Mars Artificial Habitat Project
1. Innovation and Creativity (20%)
- Key Question: How original and imaginative is the concept?
- What to Look For:
- Groundbreaking ideas or technologies that address the unique challenges of living on Mars.
- Creative solutions to resource constraints, harsh environmental conditions, or habitat adaptability.
- A design that stands out as visionary while remaining grounded in scientific principles.
2. Sustainability (20%)
- Key Question: Does the habitat demonstrate effective resource management and renewable systems?
- What to Look For:
- Efficient use of air, water, energy, and waste management systems.
- Integration of renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.
- Circular resource systems that minimize waste and promote long-term habitability.
3. Feasibility and Practicality (20%)
- Key Question: Is the design achievable with foreseeable technology and resources by 2040?
- What to Look For:
- Realistic use of materials, construction techniques, and technology.
- Thoughtful solutions to technical and environmental challenges, such as radiation protection, reduced gravity, and temperature extremes.
- Practical timelines and scalability for future expansions.
4. Aesthetic and Functional Design (20%)
- Key Question: How well does the design balance beauty and functionality?
- What to Look For:
- Visually compelling architecture and layout that reflects a futuristic, Martian aesthetic.
- Clear and logical organisation of spaces for living, working, and recreation.
- Adaptability of the design to withstand extreme Martian conditions.
5. Presentation and Communication (20%)
- Key Question: How effectively is the concept explained and illustrated?
- What to Look For:
- Clear, engaging, and well-organized visuals such as diagrams, 3D models, or renderings.
- A concise and compelling report that outlines the design’s features and rationale.
- Effective use of storytelling to communicate the vision and impact of the habitat.
- Innovation and Creativity (20%)
- Key Question: How original and imaginative is the concept?
- What to Look For:
- Groundbreaking ideas or technologies that address the unique challenges of living on Mars.
- Creative solutions to resource constraints, harsh environmental conditions, or habitat adaptability.
- A design that stands out as visionary while remaining grounded in scientific principles.
- Sustainability (20%)
- Key Question: Does the habitat demonstrate effective resource management and renewable systems?
- What to Look For:
- Efficient use of air, water, energy, and waste management systems.
- Integration of renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.
- Circular resource systems that minimize waste and promote long-term habitability.
- Feasibility and Practicality (20%)
- Key Question: Is the design achievable with foreseeable technology and resources by 2040?
- What to Look For:
- Realistic use of materials, construction techniques, and technology.
- Thoughtful solutions to technical and environmental challenges, such as radiation protection, reduced gravity, and temperature extremes.
- Practical timelines and scalability for future expansions.
- Aesthetic and Functional Design (20%)
- Key Question: How well does the design balance beauty and functionality?
- What to Look For:
- Visually compelling architecture and layout that reflects a futuristic, Martian aesthetic.
- Clear and logical organisation of spaces for living, working, and recreation.
- Adaptability of the design to withstand extreme Martian conditions.
- Presentation and Communication (20%)
- Key Question: How effectively is the concept explained and illustrated?
- What to Look For:
- Clear, engaging, and well-organized visuals such as diagrams, 3D models, or renderings.
- A concise and compelling report that outlines the design’s features and rationale.
- Effective use of storytelling to communicate the vision and impact of the habitat.