WATER PRODUCTION FROM HYDRATED SULFATES ON MARS. A GEOLOGICAL AND TECHNICAL ASSESSMENT

The extraction and utilization of planetary materials in situ are of utmost importance to establish a sustainable human presence on Mars. Among these resources, water stands out as the most valuable due to its potential for producing rocket propellants and supporting life systems for astronauts. This research delves into the water resources in Meridiani Planum, an equatorial region where the presence of hydrated sulfates has been confirmed. Leveraging data from the Opportunity Rover and its advanced instruments—the Alpha Particle X-Ray Spectrometer (APXS) and the Miniature Thermal Emission Spectrometer (Mini-TES)—chemical and mineralogical information were processed and classified using statistical methods. The authors go beyond data analysis, presenting a comprehensive high-level concept for acquiring the ore, mineral processing, and water extraction through dehydration techniques. Excavation and physical preparation are examined, incorporating crushing and beneficiation stages. Furthermore, the work includes calculating the temperature, enthalpy, Gibbs energy and kinetic for sulfates dehydration. The outcomes are highlighted through a conceptual architecture, offering estimations regarding mineral throughput for a pilot plant capable of supplying sufficient water to sustain six astronauts throughout an entire Martian year. This study sets a foundation for future endeavours in realizing the ambitious goal of establishing a self-sustaining human presence on Mars.