A fleet of robotic spacecraft and rovers are already on and around Mars, helping to pave the way for future human explorers. The data sent back to Earth by these spacecraft will help us plan how to protect the astronauts who will explore Mars.
NASA
NASA is currently evaluating the feasibility of manned missions to Mars. Although debris generated by man is not a problem once we are away from Earth, the threat of meteoroids with unknown velocities presents us with new challenges. The Remote Hypervelocity Test Laboratory is working on a three stage light gas gun to enable scientists to more accurately validate their damage prediction models.