3D Animation and Environment Modeling for Visualizing Human Survival Scenarios on Mars: A Research-Driven Visualization Framework, MARS100

Abstract

MARS100 is a research driven 3D simulation and animation project for simulating viewable realistic human survival situations on Mars by blending new scientific research and cinematic storytelling. As a student currently working on this framework, I consider this to be another way to represent how future Martian habitats and life support systems may function based on the data from current aerospace investigations, engineering proposals, and tech demos from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The simulation is based heavily on the JEANNE Habitat Design (2022), the MOXIE Oxygen ISRU experiment (2021) as well as ice mining and water extraction research, and hybrid solar - nuclear power research. Those sources provide an environment for modelling important elements of survival, such as the production of oxygen, recovery of water, greenhouse-based food systems, recycling of waste, mobility, and power generation. The project goes down a complete 3D production pipeline towards pre-production research, scriptwriting, concept development, modeling, texturing, simulation, environment design, lighting and real-time rendering. Even though the foundation consists of sound science, the end result is delivered as cinematic storytelling, with well-heeled voice over, as well as storytelling per scene to make complex processes accessible and visually interesting for the viewer. By combining the scientific accuracy with an artistic form, MARS100 creates a holistic visualization framework that not only emulates critical survival systems for Mars habitation, it enhances a greater understanding of future off-world habitation in the public domain as well. We do this through 3D environments and narrative driven design and give people a good visual idea of what life might actually look like on Mars.