A Martian Grip

The Delicate Dance of Handshakes on the Red Planet

The simple act of shaking hands, a universal gesture of greeting and agreement on Earth, takes on a whole new level of complexity on Mars. With its thin atmosphere, frigid temperatures, and pervasive dust, a Martian handshake becomes a carefully choreographed event. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this potential future social interaction.

Differences from Earthly Handshakes:

• Suit Constraints:
  • Martian explorers will be encased in bulky pressurized suits. This significantly limits dexterity and tactile feedback. Traditional handshakes, relying on subtle pressure and grip, become challenging.
  • The gloves of a spacesuit are rigid, reducing the ability to feel the other person’s hand. Therefore the hand shake becomes more of a visual confirmation of greeting, rather than the feeling of the hand shake.
• Atmospheric Pressure:
  • Mars’s atmospheric pressure is less than 1% of Earth’s. This means that a breach in a spacesuit, even a small one during a handshake, could have severe consequences.
  • Therefore any hand shake must be done with extreme care.
• Dust Contamination:
  • Martian dust is fine and pervasive, easily clinging to surfaces. Spacesuit seals and joints are vulnerable to dust contamination, which could lead to leaks or mechanical failures.
  • This makes cleaning the gloves of the space suit before and after the hand shake a high priority.
• Temperature Extremes:
  • Mars experiences extreme temperature variations. Spacesuit gloves must maintain a stable temperature, and any physical contact could affect this balance.
  • Extra care must be taken to not damage the heating elements within the gloves.

Safe Handshake Protocol:

1. Suit Integrity Check:
   • Before any physical contact, both individuals must perform a thorough suit integrity check, ensuring all seals and joints are secure.
2. Gloves Cleaning:
   • Clean the exterior of the gloves with a specialized dust removal tool.
3. Controlled Grip:
   • Extend the gloved hand and establish a firm but gentle grip. Avoid excessive pressure or sudden movements.
4. Visual Confirmation:
   • Due to limited tactile feedback, rely on visual confirmation of the handshake.
5. Post-Handshake Inspection:
   • After the handshake, inspect the gloves and suit seals for any signs of damage or contamination.
6. Decontamination:
   • After returning indoors, the space suits, and especially the gloves, must go through a strict decontamination proceedure.

Should We Shake Hands on Mars?

• While the gesture itself is symbolic, the risks involved are significant. Spacesuit integrity is paramount, and any unnecessary physical contact increases the potential for breaches.
• In the early stages of Martian exploration, prioritizing safety and mission objectives is crucial.
• However, as Martian colonies grow, and space suit technology improves, there may be a place for a modified Martian handshake.
• Instead of the standard earth hand shake, perhaps a simple light tapping of the space suit gloves would suffice. This would allow for a cultural exchange, while reducing the risk of suit damage.
• Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to shake hands on Mars will depend on a careful balance of cultural significance and safety considerations.

In conclusion:

The Martian handshake is a fascinating concept that highlights the challenges and adaptations required for human life on another planet. While the risks are currently high, future technological advancements and evolving social norms may pave the way for a unique Martian greeting.