Terraforming

Terraforming (literally, "Earth-shaping") is the process of modifying a planet, moon or other body to a more habitable atmosphere, temperature or ecology. It is a type of planetary engineering. The term is sometimes used very broadly as a synonym for planetary engineering in general; see that article for related information. This article primarily focuses on the modification of atmospheric and thermal conditions.

Related Topics:
Planet - Moon - Atmosphere - Temperature - Ecology - Planetary engineering

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The concepts of terraforming are rooted both in science fiction, and actual science. The term first appeared in a science-fiction novel, Seetee Shock (1949) by Jack Williamson, but the actual concept pre-dates this work. Olaf Stapledon's Last and First Men (1930) provides an example in fiction in which Venus is modified, after a long and destructive war with the original inhabitants, who naturally object to the process.

Related Topics:
Science fiction - Science - 1949 - Jack Williamson - Olaf Stapledon - 1930 - Venus

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Since space exploration is in its infancy, a good deal of terraforming remains speculative. However, based on what we know of our own world it seems possible to affect the environment in a deliberate way in order to change it.

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Mars is considered by many to be the most likely candidate for terraformation. Much study has gone into the possibility of heating the planet and altering its atmosphere. NASA has even hosted debates on the subject. However, a host of obstacles stand between the present and an active terraforming effort on Mars or any other world. The long timescales and practicality of terraforming are the subject of debate. Other unanswered questions relate to the ethics, logistics, economics, politics and methodology of altering the environment of an extraterrestrial world.

Related Topics:
Mars - NASA - Ethics - Logistics - Economics - Politics

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