NASA is developing plans for crewed missions to Mars in the 2030s or 2040s, utilizing infrastructure from the Artemis program to establish a long-term human presence. To mitigate the dangers of the Martian environment, researchers at the University of Michigan’s Bioastronautics and Life Support Systems (BLiSS) team have proposed a retractable, pressurized tunnel system designed to connect surface habitats safely.
How will astronauts navigate the Martian surface?
Maintaining a continuous human presence on Mars requires frequent movement between landing pads, vehicles, and habitats. According to the University of Michigan’s BLiSS team, these transits currently force astronauts to rely on Extravehicular Activities (EVAs). This process involves hours of pre-breathing oxygen, suiting up, and cycling through airlocks, which consumes an entire day and exposes crew members to radiation and decompression risks.
The proposed “Lightweight Actuated Tunnels for Crewed Habitation” (LATCH) system aims to replace these daily EVA requirements. By creating a pressurized connection between assets, the system allows crews to move between structures in minutes rather than hours. This design, submitted to the M2M X-Hab 2026 Academic Innovation Challenge, uses an inflatable shell and motorized structural rings to bridge gaps between surface modules.
A preliminary analysis conducted by the BLiSS team found that using EVA suits for Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV) operations requires 560 kilograms more propellant than using Intra-Vehicular Activity (IVA) suits. Reducing the need for bulky EVA gear could significantly lower mission costs and launch requirements.
How does the LATCH system manage safety and reliability?
Safety is the primary driver for the tunnel design, as Martian missions face extreme temperature variations and unbreathable air. According to the team’s report, the LATCH system includes a User Interface (UI) that allows both crew members and ground controllers to monitor tunnel status, including potential leakage or contamination.
The system utilizes a multi-sensor fusion approach, integrating LiDAR and computer vision to ensure accurate alignment between habitats. If an emergency occurs, the tunnel is designed to trigger automated alerts and safety systems. When not in use, the tunnels remain depressurized and retracted to prevent damage from Martian dust, debris, and long-term radiation exposure.
What are the engineering challenges for Martian infrastructure?
Building for Mars involves solving for both terrain and equipment load. The Baldwin Wallace University team, also contributing to the X-Hab program, proposed a double-tendon-based actuation system. This design uses pressurized bladders and winch-controlled cables to provide the flexibility needed for the tunnels to adjust to uneven Martian terrain.
To prevent structural failure, the research teams have integrated risk mitigation measures such as reinforced floor beams and roll-out flooring. These additions are intended to support increased loads or accidents. Dr. Nilton Renn, the Principal Investigator at the University of Michigan, and Dr. Tracie Prater are overseeing the development of these concepts to ensure they meet the rigorous demands of deep-space exploration.
Pro Tip: Understanding X-Hab Challenges
The X-Hab Academic Innovation Challenge, administered by the National Space Grant Foundation, acts as a pipeline for NASA to evaluate student-led innovations. These projects provide NASA with prototypes and lessons learned that help shape the agency’s broader Moon to Mars mission architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do astronauts need pressurized tunnels on Mars?
Current plans require astronauts to wear spacesuits for every movement between habitats, which is time-consuming and dangerous. Tunnels allow for rapid, safe movement without constant EVA preparation. - How do the tunnels stay aligned?
The system uses LiDAR and computer vision to provide feedback to ground controllers, allowing for trajectory correction and fine-motion adjustments during the extension process. - What happens if a tunnel is damaged?
Sensors continuously monitor for leaks or faults. In an emergency, the system automatically activates safety lighting and support systems to ensure crews can reach the safety of a habitat.
What do you think is the biggest hurdle for human survival on Mars? Join the conversation in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on NASA’s deep-space exploration missions.
