A new model of the Mars surface irradiation has been developed for the imitation of radiationtemperature parameters within Mars Climate Simulation Chamber (MCSC). In order to determine the values of annual and diurnal variations of the irradiance on the Martian surface, the Solar illumination E has been expressed by the distance r between the Sun and Mars and the Sun's altitude z in the Martian sky, along with its midday zenith distance z min . The arrangements of spring and autumn equinoxes as well as summer and winter solstice points in the Martian sky are discussed regarding the perihelion of Mars. Annual orbital points and variability of Solar z min for different planetary latitudes have been calculated for the 15 selected values of Mars's true anomaly, along with the illumination E for 12 hourly moments of Martian daytime on the Martian equator. These original calculations and the data which have been obtained are used for the construction of technical tools imitating variations of the surface irradiation and temperature within MCSC, programming of the supporting computer and the electric scheme, which provide proper remote control and set the environmental parameters that are analogues to the 24 hours 39 minutes circadian cycle on planet Mars. Spectral distribution as monochromatic irradiance, humidity control, atmospheric composition and other environmental parameters of planet Mars are also imitated and remotely controlled within MCSC, however, are not discussed in this particular article.

No abstract

We present here annual data on 14C abundance in tree rings during the Maunder minimum of solar activity (ad 1645–1715). We show that the solar modulation persisted during the minimum. We also compare these data with measurements of 10Be concentration in dated polar ice cores and with records of aurorae recurrence during this time interval.

The Mars Climate Simulation Chamber (MCSC) (GEO PAT 12 522/01) is designed for the investigation of the possible past and present habitability of Mars, as well as for the solution of practical tasks necessary for the colonization and Terraformation of the Planet. There are specific tasks such as the experimental investigation of the biological parameters that allow many terrestrial organisms to adapt to the imitated Martian conditions: chemistry of the ground, atmosphere, temperature, radiation, etc. MCSC is set for the simulation of the conduction of various biological experiments, as well as the selection of extremophile microorganisms for the possible Settlement, Ecopoesis and/or Terraformation purposes and investigation of their physiological functions. For long-term purposes, it is possible to cultivate genetically modified organisms (e.g., plants) adapted to the Martian conditions for future Martian agriculture to sustain human Mars missions and permanent settlements. The size of the chamber allows preliminary testing of the functionality of space-station mini-models and personal protection devices such as space-suits, covering and building materials and other structures. The reliability of the experimental biotechnological materials can also be tested over a period of years. Complex and thorough research has been performed to acquire the most appropriate technical tools for the accurate engineering of the MCSC and precious programmed simulation of Martian environmental conditions. This paper describes the construction and technical details of the equipment of the MCSC, which allows its semi-automated, long-term operation.