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NASA estimates that a round-trip journey to Mars could take nearly five years. Such a prolonged voyage demands a revolutionary approach to food storage and supply—more advanced than anything currently available. Today’s space food systems typically offer shelf lives of 1.5 to 3 years, but for Mars missions, a five-year shelf life might be essential to ensure the crew's survival and well-being without resupply stops.
The journey presents a unique set of challenges: no chance to restock midway, no refrigeration for extended storage, and the need to maintain nutritional quality over many years. The problem isn't just about feeding astronauts; it's about crafting a sustainable, nutritious, and psychologically comforting food system for extended space travel.