Resolved: The United States Federal Government should establish a colony on the Martian surface.

I. The CostWhen you begin to consider colonization, there is no doubt that the resources for survival and travel are going to be a main concern. This situation is no different. However, the estimated cost for colonizing Mars is tremendously high. In fact, there are estimates that state that it could cost between $48 billion and $121 billion for transportation, sustenance, communication, entertainment, and shelter. [1] This is money that can be used for better causes on Earth rather than Mars. II. The Human BodyAccording to Mars One, the average trip to Mars could take anywhere from six to eight months. [2] This trip alone can pose many threats to potential travelers, due to the gravity fields, isolation, space radiation, among others. [3] Along with this, inhabitants of Mars would have to get used to the lower levels of gravity, which already has a few health risks. "The surface gravity of Mars is 38% that of Earth. That might make it slightly easier on landing, but in the long run, the full force of gravity that our bodies have adapted to will not be present to re-strengthen the astronauts’ cells, bones, and muscles as they readapt to a gravity environment. Adjusting to this lower level of gravitational pull on Mars may cause a physiological change in the astronauts’ bone density, muscle strength, and circulation making it impossible to survive under Earth conditions if they were to ever return." [4]Because of this, only the most physically and mentally healthy individuals would be able to travel to Mars.III. The Planet Despite being the most similar planet to Earth, Mars is an incredibly hostile place to live due to its thin atmosphere, low gravity, solar radiation, and cold surface temperatures. [5] These factors can cause the death of human inhabitants if we are not careful. "There are numerous unforeseeable events that can occur en route or on Mars. The major concern would be Space Radiation. Space radiation, usually ionizing radiation, has been shown to cause cancer, cataract formation, or death. NASA is developing materials to diminish incoming radiation and utilize a combination of radioprotectors to limit the effects of ionizing radiation. But sometimes the level of radiation will be to high to safely protect astronauts." [6]What is even more devastating is that the dust on Mars has been proven to be hazardous to humans. [7] Because Mars is a windy, dusty planet, it would be impossible to avoid the dust."Some material on Mars may be carcinogenic (known to cause cancer), and other particles might cause lung conditions like silicosis (respiratory disease caused by breathing in silicants)." [7]This raises the question, why should we risk human lives just to colonize Mars, especially when we can reap potential benefits from Mars elsewhere?ConclusionThough there are most definitely some advantages of colonizing Mars, there is no way that you can avoid the cost, the harm done to the human body, and the extreme environment. It is simply too dangerous to risk losing money and people. Thank you. I look forward to my opponent's rebuttals. Citations[1]http://tinyurl.com...[2]http://www.mars-one.com...[3]http://www.nasa.gov...[4]http://www.spacesafetymagazine.com...[5]https://www.icr.org...[6]http://www.dbriers.com...[7]https://mepag.jpl.nasa.gov...