Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Graduate
Project Type
individual
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Christian Yeara Herrero, Graduate Student
Lead Presenter's Name
Christian Yeara Herrero
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Aviation
Faculty Mentor Name
Joao Souza Dias Garcia
Abstract
A human-crewed mission to Mars represents a bold undertaking unlike any in our species history. It will test the limits of human capability, technological innovation, and scientific exploration. Even with cutting-edge technology, a highly trained crew, and robust support systems, this mission carries significant risks. Additionally, it will demand a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar investment, making public backing essential, especially as taxpayer resources are diverted from other national priorities. Gaining widespread support for such an ambitious effort is critical for policymakers, mission planners, academia, and industry leaders. Understanding whether the public endorses this investment—and to what extent—is vital for shaping strategies, building coalitions, and securing funding. This research aims to analyze public sentiment and perceptions surrounding a Mars mission using data mining techniques and text analysis tools. In addition to capturing general public opinion, we will assess the perspectives of aerospace professionals, offering a complementary view grounded in industry expertise. While public sentiment reflects the views of everyday citizens, the professional perspective provides insights into the perceived feasibility, value, and priorities within the field. By comparing both viewpoints, we will understand how each group evaluates the mission’s objectives and implications. These insights will inform stakeholders about the expected level of support from the broader public and the aerospace community—critical factors in shaping the path forward for a human mission to Mars.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Perceptions of a Crewed Mission to Mars: Appraising General Public and Industry Support
A human-crewed mission to Mars represents a bold undertaking unlike any in our species history. It will test the limits of human capability, technological innovation, and scientific exploration. Even with cutting-edge technology, a highly trained crew, and robust support systems, this mission carries significant risks. Additionally, it will demand a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar investment, making public backing essential, especially as taxpayer resources are diverted from other national priorities. Gaining widespread support for such an ambitious effort is critical for policymakers, mission planners, academia, and industry leaders. Understanding whether the public endorses this investment—and to what extent—is vital for shaping strategies, building coalitions, and securing funding. This research aims to analyze public sentiment and perceptions surrounding a Mars mission using data mining techniques and text analysis tools. In addition to capturing general public opinion, we will assess the perspectives of aerospace professionals, offering a complementary view grounded in industry expertise. While public sentiment reflects the views of everyday citizens, the professional perspective provides insights into the perceived feasibility, value, and priorities within the field. By comparing both viewpoints, we will understand how each group evaluates the mission’s objectives and implications. These insights will inform stakeholders about the expected level of support from the broader public and the aerospace community—critical factors in shaping the path forward for a human mission to Mars.