Re:SpaceX CEO claims he can send you on a round-trip to Mars...
by inchcombec on Tuesday March 20, 2012 @01:10PM
(#3730351)
I've actually got that book in my collection and you're right, it is a good read.
The idea of producing rocket fuel on Mars is not only a good one, but quite likely the only way such a mission would even be viable. The idea of hauling all that extra rocket fuel for the return trip to Mars and back simply doesn't work.
Such a technology really is a game changer for the economics of the mission. And you can send your robotic fuel factory and make sure it's working before you commit to launching people.