Is China’s Gobi Desert the epicentre of global space tourism?

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

The Gobi Desert, located in northwest China, is becoming more accessible to adventurous travellers, heralding a new era in tourism with the introduction of space-themed attractions. Among these, Mars Base 1 stands out as a prime example, situated in Jinchang, Gansu Province. This province is not only significant for its nickel production, which is crucial for aerospace technologies, but now it also hosts a simulated Martian habitat that captivates the imagination of its visitors.

The proliferation of these space-themed tourist sites is expected to have a profound impact on tourism in the region. From the initial development of Mars Base 1 to the broader adoption of space simulation experiences, this trend not only broadens the horizons for tourism in northwest China but also plays a significant role in educational tourism.

By offering hands-on experiences that simulate life on Mars, these attractions not only entertain but also educate visitors about space exploration and the challenges of extraterrestrial living. The impact on tourism extends from increasing visitor numbers to enriching the cultural and educational landscape of the area, positioning the Gobi Desert as a unique destination for both domestic and international tourists interested in space and science.

Mars Base 1 features an array of white, capsule-shaped structures, complemented by solar panels and artificial “craters” that mimic the Martian environment. This innovative project transforms the Gobi Desert’s rugged terrain, previously utilised by Chinese scientists for testing space exploration robots such as lunar rovers and Mars probes, into a dynamic tourist destination. The site’s resemblance to the Martian surface has made it an ideal location for both scientific research and public engagement with space exploration.

The interest in space and related cultural activities among the Chinese public has seen a significant upswing, especially following the successful launch of the Tianwen-1 Mars probe in 2020. This heightened interest has led to the establishment of similar Mars simulation bases across the northwestern part of the country. These facilities aim to provide visitors, especially younger audiences like schoolchildren, with an immersive experience of what life might be like on the red planet.

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