When the first human settlers reach Mars they may need to be genetically modified in order to surface on the red planet's toxic surface.
NASA is geared to begin crewed missions to Mars in the 2030s and needs to find a way to protect the pioneering astronauts from high levels of radiation and the bone crushing effects of longterm microgravity.
Although some will return those chosen to colonise Mar's surface will need their DNA genetically modified in order to survive.
These challenges were the subject of a webinar conference on Tuesday titled 'Alienating Mars: Challenges of Space Colonization' at the Lunar and Planetary Institute, in Houston.
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