Without denigrating Dr Charles’ interesting physics, only a ratbag would want to spend months of cramped confinement, weightlessness and consequent loss of bonemass, Spartan diet and careful crapping, radiation by cosmic rays, etc. etc., as a prize for a trip to Mars - and to do what when they get there? Then, optimistically, they might return to earth - and would they look forward to their first bath in a year or so?

There is no shortage of more interesting science being reported than this poorly chosen Kingly item - if only the media would give them a more general airing.

Actually Colsett, you raise a most interesting point about modern 'journalism'.

Much of the coverage would blank out on the actual voyage to and from Mars and concentrate on the bath upon their return.... with the inevitable question "How do you feel?"

Very unfair to blame journalists for this. The latest developments in science are of interest to very few, whereas there is great interest in celebrity gossip and the alcoholic antics of footy players. Is that the fault of journalists?