Over 33 million confirmed cases and over 1 million deaths caused by COVID-19, as reported to the World Health Organization, highlights the need for better response systems to control this pandemic and prevent future ones. Throughout my research I have discovered several instances of closed-loop systems and environments in space applications that could serve us on Earth with greater rewards.
Upon researching, I have also come to the realization that terraforming Mars is very optimistic and in my opinion not the right thing to do. Mars is not ‘planet B’ as it does not have the same characteristics as Earth, and would not be a sustainable option for humans to continue their existence, especially since we as a species are perfectly suited for Earth.
That being said the implementation of closed-loop systems seen in space to a terrestrial scenario, here on Earth, could be one way of increasing the longevity of this planet. In addition, applying these closed-loop environments and practices would serve us well in preventing and controlling viral infections. Taking inspiration from such examples the goal would be to design systems that resemble ‘mini Earths’ to be used in cases where air pollution is significantly dangerous or if Earth should become uninhabitable.
For the scope of this project, I will be looking to create a product or system that will enhance our lives here on Earth, should the air become too polluted while also protecting us from future viral outbreaks.
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