Can we activate Mars magnetic field?
First we would have to somehow liquefy the outer core of the planet. Then the planet’s own rotation would create a dynamo and generate a magnetic field like Earth’s. This could be done using an extremely large nuclear bomb which would be placed near the core of the planet.
Is it possible to restart a planet’s core?
Conclusion: No. It doesn’t matter the current state of Mars’ core, or if it is even possible to ‘restart’ it to the point that it will generate a protective magnetic field. It is not feasible add that much heat with nuclear weapons, nor is it feasible by hitting Mars with the Moon.
Is it possible to generate a magnetic field on Mars?
Even if you could melt the core with nukes, you can’t make it spin which is required to generate a magnetic field. You need a moon to generate spin. Scientists are looking at artificial magnetic satellites that will generate a large enough field and park it between Mars and the sun so Mars will be covered by its magnetic shadow.
What would it take for Mars’ core to ‘restart’?
Let’s assume Mars’ core has the same density of Earth’s outer core, and needs to heat up by 1500 K to ‘restart’ it, whatever that means. The specific heat of liquid iron is 820 J/kg/C; while Nickel is 730 J/kg/C.
What would happen if we put a shield on Mars?
Simulations showed that a shield of this sort would leave Mars in the relatively protected magnetotail of the magnetic field created by the object. A potential result: an end to largescale stripping of the Martian atmosphere by the solar wind, and a significant change in climate.
How can we make Mars habitable?
NASA Wants to Launch a Giant Magnetic Field to Make Mars Habitable. NASA scientists have proposed a bold plan that could give Mars its atmosphere back and make the Red Planet habitable for future generations of human colonists.