Random thoughts · 12:37am Jun 23rd, 2013
Don't ask where this came from. Just publish it somewhere if it is in your relative field of study and take credit. I won't be able to call plagiarism because of this warning and if anyone else does, message me and I will sort it out. This is just idle thinking on the subject of human colonization. Nevertheless, it may be important someday.
A lot of people think that human colonization is a really cool idea. So do I. But how will we do it. The question of our own solar system is easy enough. Answer: We can't. No colonizing planets in our home system without terraforming or more efficient energy sources.
As for solar systems with Earthlike planets, though? We need a few ground rules.
First, there must be a military contingent to protect from predators or other hostile such and suches.
Second, there must be a medical team combined with a science team (xenobiology, agricultural experts, geneticists, etc) to allow safe planting of crops and curing foreign diseases.
Third, the planet must be quarantined. No one can leave until there are vaccines for the new viruses and cures for new diseases at home.
Fourth, the colonizing group must be at least 5000 people. Any less and you run the risk of humans dying out from assorted crap. The group can be periodically increased from transports from Earth.
Fifth, No families can be split apart. Sure colonizing will be dangerous, but you need children to take care of the adults when they become seniors.
Sixth, there must be at least enough food for each person for the entire voyage to the new planet, and for the first six months minimum.
Seven, the group must have enough supplies to build houses and furnish them (to a minimum standard) when they arrive.
Eight, the group must be trained to work with ancient levels of technology (wooden/stone tools, forges, smithing etc) to prevent them from relying on technology.
Nine, the medical and military contingent must both be ready to work in agricultural fields should their other profession not be required. (The science team will always be required)
Ten, each colonization mission is a one way trip. They must be volunteers only and extensively trained to deal with whatever they find.
