As exploration of Mars continues, a proposal envisages building a city on the red planet.

Nüwa, the capital and one of five cities planned for Tempe Mensa on Mars, is designed vertically within a cliff rather than horizontally. This arrangement is intended to reduce exposure to atmospheric conditions and radiation, which would be lethal without shelter.

The city would include the familiar components of settlements on Earth: homes, offices and green spaces.

“We still need to carry out more analysis to understand the risks we would face,” said Alfredo Munoz, head of ABIBOO.

Those dreaming of life on Mars may have to leave the prospect to their children or grandchildren. The proposal envisages development beginning in 2054, with occupation not possible before 2100.