Summary of "Biosphere 2: The Martian Colony We Made on Earth... And How it Went Wrong"
Summary of Scientific Concepts and Discoveries
Biosphere 2 Overview:
- Biosphere 2 was an ambitious experiment aimed at understanding human life in a closed ecological system, simulating conditions on other planets.
- It was designed to test the viability of human colonization of extraterrestrial environments.
Key Scientific Concepts:
- Closed Earth System (CES): A completely sealed environment where air, water, and food are self-contained.
- Biosphere Definition: The term "biosphere" refers to the global sum of all ecosystems. The first biosphere is Earth itself, hence the name "Biosphere 2."
Structure and Components:
- Comprised of seven biome areas, including:
- Rainforest
- Ocean with coral reef
- Mangrove wetlands
- Savanna grassland
- Fog desert
- Agricultural system
- Human habitat
- Utilized advanced materials for construction, including high-performance glass and steel tubing.
Research and Experiments:
- The project sought to address questions about human adaptation to confined living, diet changes, and oxygen production.
- The participants, referred to as "Biospherians," produced 83% of their diet from within the biosphere, growing various crops and raising animals.
Health and Adaptation:
- Initial weight loss was observed, but overall health improved with increased nutrient absorption efficiency.
- Issues included fluctuating crop yields and challenges in maintaining biodiversity.
Psychological and Social Dynamics:
- Human interactions within the biosphere revealed significant psychological challenges, including factionalism and conflict over project direction.
Environmental Challenges:
- Oxygen levels fell from 20.9% to 14.5%, leading to health concerns among participants.
- Microbial activity in the soil and carbon dioxide release were suspected causes.
Lessons Learned:
- Despite the challenges, the experiment provided valuable insights into ecological management, biodiversity, and human adaptability in closed systems.
Methodology Outline
- Construction of Biosphere 2:
- Design and build a closed ecological system with multiple biomes.
- Ensure airtight seals to minimize atmospheric leakage.
- Participant Selection:
- Recruit a diverse group of individuals for long-term habitation.
- Monitoring:
- Continuously track health metrics, oxygen levels, and crop yields.
- Research Focus:
- Investigate human dietary adaptation and psychological impacts of confinement.
- Study biogeochemical cycles and biodiversity within the closed system.
Featured Researchers and Sources
- Ed Bass (Businessman and Philanthropist)
- John P. Allen (Systems Ecologist)
- Mark Nelson (Biospherian and author of reports on the experience)
- Vladimir Vernadsky (Russian scientist who contributed to the concept of biospheres)
Category
Science and Nature
