How Long Does It Take to Get to Mars?

Icarus
Sep 2
2 min read

Updated: Oct 29

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For decades, the question “How long does it take to reach Mars?” has captured people’s imagination. With new missions from NASA and SpaceX on the horizon, and private companies discussing crewed expeditions, this isn’t just science fiction anymore. The answer isn’t simple, it depends on the technology, orbital mechanics, and even the timing of the launch.

Rocket soaring into space with blue exhaust, against Earth's clouded surface and dark starry background, conveying a sense of adventure. Mars travel

Travel Time Today

With current rocket technology, such as NASA’s Orion capsule or SpaceX’s Starship, the journey to Mars typically takes seven to nine months. This window is based on the most fuel-efficient route, called a Hohmann transfer orbit, where Earth and Mars are aligned in a way that minimizes travel time and energy. These launch opportunities only come about every 26 months, when the planets are in the right positions.

Challenges Along the Way

The trip isn’t just long, it’s dangerous. Astronauts will face months of exposure to space radiation, far beyond the protection of Earth’s magnetic field. They’ll also endure microgravity, which causes muscle and bone loss, as well as psychological stress from confinement and isolation. Keeping crews physically and mentally healthy for nearly a year is one of the biggest obstacles for future Mars missions.

Speeding It Up

New propulsion systems, such as nuclear thermal rockets or ion drives, could shorten the trip dramatically, cutting travel time down to just a few months. Faster travel means less radiation exposure and less strain on life-support systems. These technologies are still experimental, but they’re a key focus for agencies planning long-term interplanetary travel.

Why It Matters

Understanding the length of the journey is crucial for planning food, water, and oxygen supplies, as well as backup systems in case something fails. Every kilogram of cargo must be carefully calculated. A faster trip to Mars doesn’t just save time, it could save lives.

The Road Ahead

So, how long does it take to get to Mars? Today, expect about 7–9 months. In the future, we may see that cut in half or even more. But until new propulsion technology is proven, astronauts heading to the Red Planet will need to be ready for a long, challenging voyage across the void.