As November 2025 approaches, the Mongolian Gobi Desert is set to become the testing ground for humanity's next major step toward interplanetary travel with the Mars-V project. Spearheaded by the Mongolian Aerospace Research and Science Association (MARSA), this initiative aims to rigorously test human adaptability and technological readiness for a mission to the Red Planet through a specialized, terrestrial analog environment.
The core of the endeavor involves establishing a "Mars Camp" meticulously designed to replicate the harsh Martian environment. Participants will enter controlled isolation within hermetically sealed modules, subsisting on prepared sublimated rations. Their conditioning will include intensive physical and psychological drills, such as navigating excavated trenches intended to mimic the physical demands and visual disorientation of extraterrestrial exploration. This focus on authentic simulation highlights the belief that mastering self and environment on Earth is the crucial precursor to a successful journey to Mars.
The Gobi Desert was selected due to its striking geological parallels with Mars. The region naturally experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, ranging from -40°C to +40°C, and possesses soil rich in iron oxide, closely mirroring the Martian regolith. This low-humidity, rust-colored terrain provides an unparalleled laboratory for developing and refining life support systems and operational protocols. The Mars Society is a key collaborator, ensuring that data gathered from this Mongolian site can be integrated with findings from established analog stations globally, such as MDRS and FMARS, to support unified space exploration development.
This pioneering effort aligns with Mongolia's national strategic goals, specifically the state priority program "Vision-2050," and maintains robust governmental endorsement. Beyond preparing for crewed missions, the project opens a new avenue for experiential travel. For a fee of approximately $6,000 per month, individuals can undertake a simulated Martian sojourn, offering a vastly more accessible alternative to the estimated $55 million cost of an actual voyage. The camp plans to host tourists for two to three years, providing an immersive experience without the risks of orbital mechanics or decompression.
Prospective participants will undergo preparatory training mirroring astronautical standards, focusing on the psychology of isolation and team dynamics. Before deployment to the remote base, which has been under development near Ulaanbaatar for over a decade, participants must complete a crucial three-day practical immersion in the capital, during which all personal communication devices, including mobile phones, will be surrendered. Once deployed, a small crew of five will conduct essential analog tasks, including mapping the simulated terrain and analyzing soil samples. This combined effort, involving both professional researchers and paying participants, facilitates the mass study of the human factor under stress and yields vital data on equipment reliability in extreme conditions, marking a significant step toward cultivating the resilience needed for humanity's eventual leap to other worlds.