O and Beer May Hold the Keys to Brewing Houses on Mars
Researchers have developed a method to create concrete-like building materials for Mars using sand, gelatin, and engineered yeast. This innovation could solve the challenge of constructing housing on the red planet by utilizing locally available resources.
Why it matters
Advancements in space construction materials are vital for the feasibility of long-term human colonization and exploration of Mars.
The yeast used won’t brew beer, but it can help brew a building.
Read full bio September 10, 2026, 5:53 pm ET
Housing on Mars could involve a new method that uses sand and gelatin to make a concrete-like material. NASA/JPL-Caltech Establishing life on another planet is a multifaceted process with many problems. Housing is one major challenge, but a new study suggests researchers have found a way to build living quarters on Mars using materials already present on the planet, along with a couple of other clever ingredients.
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