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Planetary Protection and Mars Special Regions--A Suggestion for Updating the Definition
Petra Rettberg1, Alexandre M Anesio2, Victor R Baker3
11 German Aerospace Centre , Cologne, Germany .
Astrobiology
|February 6, 2016
Summary
Planetary protection policies for Mars Special Regions are evolving. This study reviews the history, recent updates, and proposes new definitions for these sensitive areas to guide future exploration.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Astrobiology
- Space Policy
Background:
- Planetary protection is crucial for preventing forward contamination of celestial bodies.
- Mars "Special Regions" are areas with conditions potentially supporting microbial life, requiring stringent protection measures.
- The Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) establishes international planetary protection policies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development and current status of planetary protection policies for Mars Special Regions.
- To inform on recent COSPAR policy updates and related scientific reviews.
- To propose updated definitions and identify future research needs for Mars Special Regions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of COSPAR policies and scientific reports.
- Analysis of recent reviews, including the MEPAG SR-SAG2 and joint committee reports.
- Identification of emerging scientific issues impacting policy.
Main Results:
- The concept of Mars Special Regions has evolved significantly over time.
- Recent reviews highlight the need for updated policy definitions based on new scientific understanding.
- Several key scientific questions regarding microbial habitability and survival in Special Regions remain.
Conclusions:
- The current COSPAR planetary protection policy for Mars Special Regions requires revision.
- New definitions are proposed to better reflect scientific knowledge and guide future exploration.
- Further research is essential to address outstanding scientific questions about Mars Special Regions.
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