2025 - 10th Anniversary Year

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Mars 2040

SPACE COMPETITION 2025

INSTRUCTIONS

JUDGING CRITERIA

SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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:

  1. Name of the Habitat
    Provide a creative and meaningful name for your design.
  2. Size and Capacity
    Specify the dimensions of your habitat and the maximum number of inhabitants it can support.
  3. Purpose of Each Part
    Describe the purpose and functionality of key areas, such as living quarters, workspaces, and life support systems.
  4. Design Rationale
    Explain why you chose this design, including factors like sustainability, efficiency, and adaptability to Mars’ environment.

Referencing:
If you use any online sources or research in your report, please include a bibliography at the end. We recommend using the Harvard referencing style, though other clear formats are acceptable. References do not count toward your 500-word limit.

Part 3: Submission

  • Model: Submit image exports of your digital model or photos of your physical model. If submitting multiple files, please compress them into a ZIP file before uploading.
  • Report: Submit a typed document in PDF or Word format (.pdf or .docx).
Submit Your Entry Now

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.

Entries Closed!

Submit Your Mars Artificial Habitat Entry

Note:

  • You may only upload a maximum of 4 files. Use a ZIP file if you need to upload more.
  • Accepted file types: doc, docx, pptx, odt, odp, pdf, png, jpeg, webp, mp4, mkv, webm, zip.
  • Max file size: 100MB