Inside; Mars [Architectural Thesis]

Abstract
Overpopulation, climate change, and the desire for
something new has led many to consider the possibility
of life on another planet. While mass repopulation of
Earth may or may not be a reality, the conquest for space
is inevitable. Humans are continuously trying to step foot
further into space in pursuit of knowledge of the vast
beyond. With the accelerated rate of development and
exploration in the space industry, especially that of Mars,
dreams of a life on Mars is not as far as we deem it to be.
Shelter (or in this case architecture) being a basic human
necessity, will thus also be required on Mars.
Most of the existing approaches and preconceived
designs envisioning architecture on Mars are focused
on survival, where the bare minimum are provided to
ensure astronauts are able to carry out their missions
successfully. While this is important, the intangible
factor of ‘happiness’ and psychological well being is just
as critical, especially when considering an outpost that
houses more than just a handful of people. Interpersonal
relationships, isolation, physical and psychological wellbeing,
as well as happiness levels are some of the key
factors to be considered when designing for a community
of people who has travelled across space to live on Mars,
54.6 million kilometers away from Earth. Of course, some
of these proposals were also developed based on outdated
information and technology, thus a new architectural
design is required to challenge the typical ideas of ‘life
on Mars’.
This thesis aims to approach a design requisite for a Mars
outpost that focuses not just on surviving, but thriving
on Mars. Aside from understanding the physical aspects
that contributes to sustaining life on a foreign planet,
the psychological, and social parameters will be a focus
considering its contribution to the quality of life for the
inhabitants. Through this study, this thesis will also be
analysing the traditional earth architecture typology and
its relationship to architecture on Mars.
In seeking to understand how architecture can play a
role in overcoming psychological barriers of living in a
foreign planet, the envisioned Mars outpost would be the
starting precedent for the future colonisation of Mars.