Leave No Trace Principles for Outer Space
Leave No Trace is a set of outdoor ethics guidelines established in the 1960’s, but these principles will still apply in the 2060’s when we’re Space Camping on Mars.
As we’ve already established — Outer space is outside, too. You know what that means? All the principles of conservation we employ here on Earth still apply in outer space. If you’re not already familiar, Leave No Trace is a set of seven outdoor ethics that promote conservation. The seven tenants were drafted and adopted by the newly formed outdoor community in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Almost 50 years later, it’s now time to discuss how Leave No Trace principles apply to Space Camping.
1. Plan ahead and prepare
At the moment, it’s difficult for some government space agencies like NASA to plan ahead more than 4 years because of changes in government leadership and subsequent funding fluctuations. However, private sector space agencies are able to think bigger and prepare for loftier missions — like colonizing Mars. Privatizing space exploration may be key to ensure proper planning and follow through for long-term missions.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
