Scientists of the University of Lisbon have invented a way to get oxygen on Mars

A Portuguese group of researches has put forth a theory how to get oxygen and rocket fuel on Mars.

Latest studies of the Red Planet have proven that 96% of its atmosphere consists of carbon dioxide. Portuguese scientists have figured out how to use plasma technology to separate oxygen for breathing and carbon oxide as a raw material for fuel.

Scientists-theorists have suggested a way to get chemical elements by means of a technology of using low temperature plasma. According to their theory an experiment has to be performed in climatic conditions of Mars, because the temperature of the Red Planet is about -60°C, and the air pressure is more than 150 times lower than on Earth. At such climate oxidizing reactions will be slow, which will give an opportunity to separate oxygen and carbon oxide by putting them into different vessels.

Scientists of the University of Lisbon have states that if this technology is meant to exist, it will serve as a stable source of oxygen and a raw material for making rocket fuel.

Currently, the International Space Station consumes almost 5 kilograms of oxygen daily. Researchers think that the amount of a life-saving substance would be sufficient for such needs.