Becoming Martian: How Living in Space Will Change Our Bodies and Minds

Solomon (Future Humans), a biology professor at Rice University, delivers an underwhelming exploration of the long-term consequences of humans migrating to space. While scientists and science fiction writers have long been fixated on the idea of settling on Mars, Solomon explains the many challenges humanity would have to overcome to do so, like the prevalence of toxic chemical compounds in the planet’s soil and high radiation levels on its surface. He tackles the question of whether humans can reproduce in space (the near weightlessness experienced there might prevent bones from fully forming, increasing infant mortality), explores the psychological effects that could result from leaving Earth (the harshness and isolation of being on Mars or the moon could lead to high stress levels), and outlines the evolutionary changes that could occur (living in lower gravity might reduce the need for arched feet, and living in climate-controlled habitats or space suits could lead to a reduction of sweat glands, lowering the intensity of body odor). “It is premature to push for space settlements because we are not yet ready,” he concludes. While he discusses a range of noteworthy scientific topics, from spaceflight to CRISPR gene-editing technology, he offers little new information or insights. Space aficionados will be disappointed. (Feb.)