Well, it should have been expected...

[clocketpatch]

It would appear that, if this is successful, humanity's first steps towards colonizing a new planet will be funded and planned using the magic of reality television:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mars_One

I really don't know what to think about this, but it is rather cool that it's open to anyone. So, if you want a shot at a one-way trip to Mars (and are willing to risk 33$ on the mission folding) apply now!

Comments

[jjpor.livejournal.com]

It is pretty remarkable, isn't it, regardless of whether or not the colony actually happens (one very, very much suspects not). I thought like lost_spook above, only my thought was "coming to an episode of new Doctor Who near you..." ;)

[clocketpatch]

Wired magazine gives it a plausibility rating of 2 out of 10, but the interesting thing is, technologically speaking, there's nothing wrong with their plans - all of the issues come down to whether or not they'll be able to raise enough money/interest to actually fund their mission (and whether or not insurance companies will allow four people to be blasted off on a one-way trip to elsewhere).

It's a pretty grand plan, if nothing else, and I commend them for the sheer audacity of it. Not sure I'd actually want to go to Mars myself though, not one-way anyway...