As international space agencies accelerate plans for human missions to Mars, researchers are exploring new ways to make long-term habitation on the Red Planet safer and more practical. A team from the University of Michigan has developed a concept for retractable, pressurised tunnels that could connect habitats and spacecraft on the Martian surface, potentially reducing risks for astronauts and improving day-to-day operations during future missions.
Innovative Infrastructure for Human Exploration of Mars
Both NASA and China’s national space programme are aiming to send astronauts to Mars within the coming decades. Under NASA’s Moon to Mars strategy, infrastructure developed through the Artemis programme is expected to support crewed missions to Mars during the 2030s or 2040s.
Like the long-term scientific presence envisioned for the Moon, future Mars missions are expected to rely on surface habitats designed for extended exploration and research. While deep-space travel and prolonged exposure to microgravity remain major hurdles, life on Mars will bring its own unique challenges.
Harsh Conditions on the Martian Surface
Mars has an extremely thin atmosphere that cannot support human life, along with dramatic temperature fluctuations and higher levels of radiation than those experienced on Earth. As a result, astronauts will need robust infrastructure to move safely between habitats, vehicles and other mission assets.
In response to these challenges, the Bioastronautics and Life Support Systems (BLiSS) team at the University of Michigan has proposed an active, pressurised tunnel network designed specifically for Mars.
The concept is detailed in a report titled “LATCH: Lightweight Actuated Tunnels for Crewed Habitation”, submitted to the Moon to Mars eXploration Systems and Habitation (M2M X-Hab 2026) Academic Innovation Challenge. The competition, supported by NASA and administered by the National Space Grant Foundation, encourages university students to develop technologies that could contribute to future space missions.
The project was led by Dr. Nilton Renn, John R. Barker Collegiate Professor in Planetary Sciences and Space Engineering at the University of Michigan. Dr. Tracie Prater, an aerospace and mechanical engineer at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and materials and processes engineer with United Launch Alliance, served as project sponsor.
Reducing the Need for Spacewalks
Maintaining a permanent human presence on Mars will require frequent movement between habitats, landing pads, scientific facilities and spacecraft. Under current mission concepts, astronauts would typically need to conduct Extravehicular Activities (EVAs) whenever travelling outside.
Preparing for an EVA is a lengthy process involving oxygen pre-breathing procedures, spacesuit preparation, airlock operations and post-mission maintenance. The process can consume many hours and exposes astronauts to risks such as decompression-related health issues and increased radiation exposure.
The challenge is particularly significant when entering or exiting a Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV), the spacecraft intended to transport astronauts back into orbit. Spacesuits add complexity and weight, increasing vehicle mass and the amount of propellant required.
Tunnel System Designed for Faster Transit
To address these issues, the BLiSS team proposed a lightweight pressurised tunnel system capable of actively positioning itself between crewed surface assets.
The retractable tunnels would be deployed only when required, allowing astronauts to move between habitats and spacecraft without donning full spacesuits. According to the proposal, journeys that could otherwise involve extensive EVA preparation may be reduced to just a few minutes.
“The project calls for the development of concepts for a lightweight pressurised tunnel system which can provide active positioning and berthing between crewed surface assets on Mars,” the team stated in its report.
How the Pressurised Tunnel Works
Each tunnel would include an inflatable outer shell, structural support rings, motor-driven extension mechanisms, handrails, tracks and tread units integrated throughout its length.
The system would connect directly to habitat airlocks. Using a dedicated user interface, astronauts could select a destination such as a Mars Ascent Vehicle or another habitat module and instruct the tunnel to extend toward the target hatch.
Sensor-Guided Operations
A combination of sensors and ground-based monitoring would continuously assess tunnel alignment, system performance and environmental safety. The tunnel could make fine adjustments during deployment to ensure a secure connection.
Once attached at both ends, the tunnel would be gradually pressurised with oxygen and nitrogen. After sensors confirm a safe internal environment, up to two crew members could travel through the passage while carrying cargo.
The system would also include emergency support features. If a safety issue arose during transit, automated alerts, lighting systems and support equipment would activate to guide crew members safely to their destination.
When not in use, the tunnel would be depressurised and retracted. This approach is intended to minimise radiation exposure within the structure and reduce the accumulation of Martian dust, while also lowering the risk of damage from debris.
Testing and Risk Assessment
As part of the project, the BLiSS team produced detailed computer-aided design (CAD) models and developed a working prototype of the tunnel and its actuation system, including associated control software.
The researchers also carried out a comprehensive risk assessment covering technical, operational, cost and safety considerations.
One identified hazard involved the possibility of structural failure while astronauts were inside the tunnel. To reduce this risk, the team proposed additional floor supports and deployable flooring systems capable of handling heavier loads or accidental impacts, such as dropped cargo.
Another challenge centred on ensuring accurate alignment between the tunnel and its destination. To improve reliability, the researchers recommended a multi-sensor approach combining LiDAR technology with computer vision systems. By cross-checking information from multiple sources, the system could detect alignment issues and make corrections in real time.
Looking Ahead
While still in the conceptual and testing stages, the retractable pressurised tunnel system highlights the growing focus on practical infrastructure for future Mars missions. As agencies prepare for human exploration beyond the Moon, technologies that reduce risk, improve efficiency and support long-term habitation are likely to play a crucial role in making a sustained presence on Mars possible.
Alexander Donovan writes for News Collective, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, reliable reporting and useful information, helping readers stay informed about current events, emerging trends, and stories that matter.