The dream of establishing permanent settlements on Mars has always been limited by one major challenge: how to build safe, durable structures on a planet with freezing temperatures, thin atmosphere, and constant radiation. Scientists now believe the answer may lie beneath the astronauts’ feet. New research shows that Martian regolith the dusty soil covering the planet could be turned into strong, concrete-like building material using living microorganisms through a process known as biomineralization.
Biomineralization is a natural phenomenon where microbes create minerals as part of their metabolic activity. Dr. Shiva Khoshtinat of Politecnico di Milano is among the researchers studying how these microbes can be harnessed for construction on Mars. By examining bacteria that survive in Earth’s harshest environments including volcanic terrains and deep caves scientists are learning how similar organisms might be adapted to function on the Red Planet.
A particularly promising partnership involves two hardy microorganisms: Sporosarcina pasteurii which produces calcium carbonate through ureolysis, and Chroococcidiopsis a radiation-resistant cyanobacterium capable of surviving extreme conditions. According to Dr. Khoshtinat, these microbes could work together to transform loose Martian soil into solid construction material. While Chroococcidiopsis generates oxygen and helps create a more habitable environment, Sporosarcina pasteurii secretes natural polymers that strengthen and bind the regolith. The combined result is a tough, concrete-like substance that could form the foundation of future Martian buildings.
The idea goes far beyond simply hardening soil. Researchers are also exploring how this biomineralized regolith could be used as a feedstock for 3D printing. Mixing the microbes with Martian soil may allow automated robotic systems to print entire structures on-site, eliminating the need to transport large quantities of construction materials from Earth. Since biomineralization works at room temperature and requires far less energy than conventional techniques, it fits well with Mars’s limited resources and harsh climate.
The potential benefits extend to life support as well. Chroococcidiopsis could produce oxygen for astronauts, reducing dependence on Earth for critical supplies. Meanwhile, byproducts from Sporosarcina pasteurii such as ammonia could help support agriculture in controlled habitats, enabling food production on Mars. Scientists say that over time, these microbial systems may even contribute to early-stage terraforming, gradually making parts of Mars more hospitable.
As research progresses, the concept of building with bacteria is shifting from science fiction to a realistic tool for human exploration. If successful, these tiny organisms may become some of the first settlers on Mars quietly laying the groundwork for the humans who will follow.