Colonization of other planets is a common theme in science fiction. Many stories describe what happens when something goes wrong in the colony - which is something to keep in mind! Some techniques are disturbingly simple and possible today, but without the potential for great success. Some techniques may be possible in just a few years.

The most realistic technique for colonizing our Solar System comes from Stephen Baxter's novel "Titan" (1997). Using a single US Space Shuttle, two old Apollo command modules, and some additional equipment cobbled together, five scientists travel to Saturn's largest moon, Titan. Whilst not the safest or most effective method for colonizing another world, it does have the advantage of being feasible right now. Another nearby colonization effort is described in David Drake's novel "Surface Action" (1990). He describes a technique for colonizing Venus by terraforming it. Using small asteroids and comets, the atmosphere of Venus is altered and seeded with Earthly life (bacteria, algae, etc.). A novel that deals exclusively with colonization and the problems that could be faced by colonists is "Legacy of Heorot" (1987) by Larry Niven, Jerry Pournelle, and Steven Barnes. There are detailed descriptions and logical reasoning for the equipment and techniques used by the colonists.

Extraterrestrial colonization is not going to be a programme undertaken lightly. Yet, the need for space and the potential safety for humans as a species lead us to the conclusion that colonization will have to happen. However, the colonists will have to be lavishly equipped and supported for their efforts to be successful.

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