In recent years global warming has had adverse effects on the earth. Some scientists predict that it will take no more than 80 years to get to the point of no return. This begs the question, what will we do? Terraforming Mars is an idea that many scientists, experts and enthusiasts subscribe to. Mars, our neighboring planet, has long fascinated people as a potential target for human colonization. There are several ways to terraform Mars and consists of the following: modifying the atmosphere, creating liquid water, building up the magnetic field and introducing microorganisms.

One key aspect of terraforming Mars would be modifying its thin atmosphere. Currently, Mars' atmosphere primarily consists of carbon dioxide. To make it more habitable, the atmosphere would need to have an increase of oxygen and greenhouse gasses, such as methane or fluorocarbons, to trap heat and raise the surface temperature. This would require large-scale atmospheric engineering techniques that have yet to be developed.

Creating liquid water on Mars is another crucial component of terraforming. While water exists on Mars in the form of ice caps and subsurface reservoirs, transforming it into a sustainable liquid state would be a challenge. Melting the polar ice caps or redirecting water from other celestial bodies, such as asteroids or comets, could potentially provide the necessary water resources to create lakes, rivers, and oceans on Mars.

Another concern in terraforming Mars is the lack of a global magnetic field. Earth's magnetic field shields us from harmful solar radiation. Establishing a magnetic field on Mars will protect any potential future inhabitants and their environment. However, generating a planetary-scale magnetic field is a complex task that exceeds our current technological capabilities.

Lastly, introducing microorganisms or plants to Mars could play a crucial role in beginning atmospheric transformation and ecosystem development. These organisms could help produce oxygen, convert carbon dioxide, and facilitate the formation of soil. However, any introduction of life forms from Earth would require careful consideration to prevent potential damage to existing microbial life on Mars.

While terraforming Mars is an interesting concept, it remains within the realm of speculation and scientific exploration. The challenges of modifying its atmosphere, creating liquid water, establishing a magnetic field, and introducing life forms are immense. Currently, the focus lies in scientific exploration, understanding Mars' past and present conditions, and assessing its potential for hosting microbial life.