Imagine waking up on a chilly, red-tinted landscape that feels like Mars. It’s chilly—about -30 degrees Celsius outside. You grab a bite of freeze-dried dumplings for breakfast, suit up in thermal layers and space gear, and step out into a swirling sandstorm. This isn’t science fiction; it’s the MARS-V Project in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, where tourists can experience a month-long survival simulation meant to mimic life on the red planet.
The MARS-V Project, developed by a non-profit in Ulaanbaatar, aims to create a comprehensive Mars analog station in the Gobi. The project team anticipates welcoming its first guests by 2029, a pioneer adventure for those excited about interplanetary life.
Why Gobi? Its extreme temperatures and barren landscape closely resemble Martian conditions. With temperature swings from -40 to 45 degrees Celsius, it provides a realistic environment for training. The reddish soil adds to the otherworldly feel, making it a scientific goldmine for testing equipment and preparing astronauts for space exploration.
As the project moves forward, it embraces tourism, blending the thrill of adventure with scientific training. Enkhtuvshin Doyodkhuu, CEO of MARS-V, emphasizes that participants will face isolation and need a survival mindset. Potential adventurers must pass rigorous tests and complete a three-month virtual training program before even stepping foot in Mongolia.
Days at the camp are packed with activities—geological mapping, soil sample collection, and even simulated communication delays with “Earth.” Each task aims to immerse participants in a realistic Martian experience, testing their adaptability and teamwork under pressure. And every day starts with meditation to help manage stress and anxiety, a crucial element for pioneers in space.
In a recent discussion about the psychology of isolation, Doyodkhuu noted the profound effects extended stays in such environments can have on mental well-being. He mentioned that the program aims to prepare participants not just physically but also mentally for the challenges of long-term space travel.
The project arrives at an exciting time. According to a recent Statista report, the commercial space tourism market is expected to grow rapidly, reaching billions in the next few years. This growth is partly due to high-profile flights by companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin, attracting attention from celebrities and thrill-seekers alike.
For those unable to shell out millions for an actual spaceflight, MARS-V offers a unique alternative at about $6,000 for a month-long experience, including training—a fraction of the cost compared to average tickets for private space journeys. It promises a taste of cosmic adventure without the risks of space travel.
Participants will stay in Mars-like habitats, interconnected pods that include living quarters and labs. Meals are designed to mimic astronaut rations, with freeze-dried Mongolian dishes. This blend of local culture and space exploration prepares adventurers for replicating life on Mars while honoring their roots.
As the project evolves, it draws inspiration from Mongolia’s long history of adaptation and living in isolated conditions. Doyodkhuu sees this as a natural progression toward life on another planet. As they put it, “We have thousands of years of history living in isolated places, with very limited resources. We’re just taking that idea to another planet.”
While this may appeal to explorers of all kinds, the high-stakes atmosphere and physical demands might deter some. But, for those ready for adventure, the promise of a Martian-like experience is hard to resist. When not at the Mars camp, one can always enjoy the luxury of the Gobi’s Three Camel Lodge—a comfortable haven that offers an outstanding whiskey selection and a far more relaxing experience, just a day’s journey from the simulated Martian landscape.
