7 People Elon Musk Should Send to Mars (and 1 He Definitely Shouldn’t)
Elon Musk’s dream of colonizing Mars requires more than rockets and robots—it needs extraordinary people to lead the way. These individuals must be skilled, adaptable, and visionary, with the grit to thrive in a harsh, alien environment. The first settlers of Mars will set the tone for generations to come, laying the foundations for a sustainable society.
Here are seven exceptional people Musk should consider sending to Mars—and one person who should absolutely stay behind.
1. Mae Jemison: The Multi-Talented Pioneer
Why She’s Perfect for Mars
Mae Jemison, a former astronaut, engineer, and physician, has the experience and versatility to excel in a Martian environment. Her ability to adapt and thrive in high-pressure situations makes her an invaluable candidate for this mission.
Role on Mars
Jemison could lead medical research and ensure the health and wellness of the crew while contributing her expertise in engineering and science.
2. Tim Peake: The Experienced Astronaut
Why He’s Perfect for Mars
Tim Peake, a decorated astronaut and former military test pilot, has spent months aboard the International Space Station (ISS). His understanding of space operations and teamwork would be vital for the challenges of Martian colonization.
Role on Mars
Peake could oversee mission logistics, ensuring smooth operations and maintaining morale during extended stays on Mars.
3. Jane Goodall: The Environmental Observer
Why She’s Perfect for Mars
Jane Goodall’s decades of experience studying and managing ecosystems make her uniquely qualified to help humanity build a sustainable presence on Mars. Her deep understanding of life systems and resource management would be invaluable.
Role on Mars
Goodall could advise on creating sustainable agricultural and ecological systems, ensuring humanity’s interaction with the Martian environment is efficient and ethical.
4. Elon Musk: The Visionary Himself
Why He’s Perfect for Mars
Musk’s leadership and problem-solving abilities have been the driving force behind the Mars mission. His hands-on involvement would demonstrate his commitment to the endeavor and provide inspiration to the entire team.
Role on Mars
As a leader and innovator, Musk would address unforeseen challenges, inspire the crew, and oversee the establishment of critical infrastructure.
5. Simone Giertz: The Inventive Problem-Solver
Why She’s Perfect for Mars
Simone Giertz, known for her ingenious and humorous inventions, has a knack for turning unconventional ideas into practical solutions. Her creativity and engineering skills would add a unique perspective to the mission.
Role on Mars
Giertz could tackle unexpected challenges with innovative solutions, keeping life on Mars functional—and a little fun.
6. Neil deGrasse Tyson: The Cosmic Educator
Why He’s Perfect for Mars
Neil deGrasse Tyson’s expertise in astrophysics and his ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity make him a perfect candidate for a mission that will captivate the world’s imagination.
Role on Mars
Tyson could document the mission, create educational content, and engage Earth’s population in the journey, ensuring the mission’s legacy resonates globally.
7. Sarah Al Amiri: The Space Leader
Why She’s Perfect for Mars
Sarah Al Amiri, the Chair of the UAE Space Agency, has proven her ability to lead ambitious space programs. Her strategic mindset and expertise in space technology would be crucial for building a long-term Martian presence.
Role on Mars
Al Amiri could design governance and resource management systems, ensuring the colony’s sustainability and operational efficiency.
And 1 Person Musk Should Not Send: Logan Paul
Why He Should Stay on Earth
While Logan Paul has a knack for entertainment and drawing attention, his controversial antics could disrupt team cohesion and detract from the mission’s seriousness. Mars isn’t a stage for stunts; it’s humanity’s greatest challenge.
What Could Go Wrong
Paul’s divisive personality and focus on spectacle over substance might undermine the mission’s objectives and public perception. Let’s leave the drama on Earth.
The Ideal Mars Team
The success of humanity’s first colony on Mars will depend on more than technology—it will rely on the skills, ingenuity, and resilience of the people who lead the way. These seven individuals represent a blend of expertise, creativity, and leadership, essential for tackling the challenges of interplanetary life.
By carefully selecting individuals based on merit and capability, Musk can ensure that the first Martian settlers set humanity on a path toward a sustainable and thriving future. As for who not to send? Mars deserves leaders and builders—not chaos-makers.
8. Gordon Ramsay: The First Martian Chef
Why He’s Perfect for Mars
Mars will need more than engineers and scientists—it’ll need someone who can make freeze-dried potatoes and lab-grown algae taste like a five-star meal. Gordon Ramsay’s fiery personality, unparalleled cooking skills, and ability to turn chaos into cuisine make him the perfect choice to bring flavor (and a healthy dose of swearing) to the Red Planet.
Role on Mars
Ramsay could revolutionize Martian dining by:
- Inventing “Martian Beef Wellington” from synthetic proteins.
- Hosting the first interplanetary episode of Hell’s Kitchen: Mars Edition.
- Keeping the team motivated with his culinary creations while screaming at anyone who overcooks their algae paste.
What Makes It Outrageous
Imagine Ramsay berating a fellow astronaut: “You call this a hydroponic carrot?! It’s raw! We’re on bloody Mars, not a roadside diner!” His unfiltered personality would add humor and humanity to an otherwise intense mission.
Conclusion: Because Even Mars Needs a Bit of Spice
Elon Musk is known for his love of outrageous ideas, and sending Gordon Ramsay to Mars might be the perfect way to keep things lively while proving that even the harshest environments deserve gourmet cuisine. After all, humanity’s first colony on Mars should eat like kings—or at least try to.
See Also: Elon Musk’s 7-Step Plan to Colonize Mars While Dealing with Earth’s Nonsense
