Making a magnetic field on the planet Mars

author:Zhansaya Galymova

Abstract

Relevance of the study:

According to scientists' forecasts, 4.2 billion years ago the atmosphere of Mars was favorable for life. But due to the destruction of the magnetic field of Mars, the atmosphere of Mars has changed dramatically. Therefore, the temperature dropped, the water sources on the surface of the planet were destroyed. The absence of a magnetic field created conditions for the penetration of solar radiation in excessive amounts. Solar radiation poses a serious threat to the health of astronauts and pioneers on Mars. Based on a report by Jim Green, director of NASA's Planetary Division, it is possible to restore 1/7 of the atmosphere of Mars by creating an artificial, strong magnetic field on the planet Mars.[1]

Research objective:

Making a magnetic field on the planet Mars

Hypothesis:

Is it possible to protect Mars from solar wind and radiation by generating a magnetic field?

Research methods:

1. Analyzing Jim Green’s idea

2. Consider methods of making a magnetic field on Mars

3. Doing calculations

4. Analyzing research’s results

5. Making a theory-model

Ways to solve the problem:

To generate a magnetic field on the Lagrange 1 point, the superconducting magnets will be used. They will be localized on solar sails which will be on Lagrange 1 point. The energy taken from solar sails will be used not only to move solar sail and also to provide an electric circuit with current strength. Then, radiation from the sun and cosmic rays bypass Mars, colliding with the magnetic field created at the Lagrange point.

Novelty of research:

Firstly, solar sails used in this project. The principle of operation is based on light pressure. The photons have their own impulse, so when they collide with solar sail, photons give their impulse, that is why it starts to move. By enlarging a solar sail more energy will be collected. Secondly, launching a solar sail to Lagrange point, makes solar sail to stay in one place relatively to Sun and Mars.

The result of the work:

The magnetic field can be caused by permanent magnets and electrical circuits. To create a magnetic field on Mars, it is necessary to create an electrical circuit at the Lagrange point. Magnets with high liquidity are used for this purpose. Due to the magnetic field created by the electric circuit, Mars remains in the tail of the magnet, protecting it from the solar wind and radiation. To do this, it is necessary to create a magnetic field at the Lagrange point, the magnetic induction of which is equal to 2 T. According to calculations, to protect Mars, it is necessary to supply a current of 512 ∙ 103W. In order for the electrical circuit to always work at the Lagrange point, a space sail can be installed at this point. And the area of the solar sail should be equal to 967 m2. The space sail contributes notonly to finding the circuit at the Lagrange point, but also to providing the circuit with electricity. Lithium-ion batteries are used for this purpose.

Discussion:

Generating a magnetic field on the Mars protects it from solar wind and radiation. As the result, the average temperature on Mars will be increased, polar ice caps will be melt and it will be easier to colonize Mars. Other scientists should explore ways to generate energy on Mars