"Small but Mighty: Mars Outpost Thrives with 22 Residents, Study Finds"

A recent study by researchers from George Mason University suggests that a long-term Mars outpost could survive with just 22 psychologically stable colonists, challenging previous studies that estimated a minimum of 100 colonists. The researchers used agent-based modeling to simulate various attributes and responsibilities of the colonists, finding that the number of "neurotics" should be kept to a minimum as they had a higher mortality rate. The study highlights the importance of considering social and behavioral aspects in the success and cost-effectiveness of future Mars missions.