Date: 3/5/13
Source: CNN
Abstract: “501 days in space with your spouse: Could you handle it?” is an article that discusses the upcoming Mars Mission in 2018. The mission seems pretty vague, but will consist of a couple being sent into space for 501 days to fly around Mars. This trip will be the closest humans have ever been to mars. A couple is being chosen to represent the roles in humanity. Aside from space adventure dreams, I find this article particularly interesting when thinking of Jamer Hunt’s lecture about scale. This mission may appear to be outside of a global context, as it takes place in outer space, but I feel that this can have impact on many different scalar levels. This mission will mean many different things not only for NASA, but what I can’t help but think of is how will we treat this new planet once we start working there.
Link: http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/04/health/mars-space-travel-psychology/index.html?hpt=he_t2
-Samantha Cooper
(TH) Global Issues 
Samantha, your example raises many questions and challenges. As you mention, there are many ways to think in terms of scale here. Also (as you mention), issues of sustainability and responsibility.