Calculating a journey to Mars with introductory physics

Abstract

The problem of a crewed mission to Mars provides a compelling and realistic context for teaching introductory physics. In this work, we present a coherent set of calculations describing a round-trip journey between Earth and Mars, using only mathematical tools accessible at the high-school level. The treatment integrates key topics that are typically taught separately -such as Newtonian gravitation, energy, circular motion, and basic astrodynamics- into a single coherent framework. The analysis includes Hohmann transfer orbits, travel times, launch conditions, and mission constraints, illustrating how a complex real-world problem can be transformed into an effective classroom resource. This work aims to support teachers and students in exploring interplanetary travel as an accessible and motivating application of fundamental physics.