Paraterraforming vs. terraforming the Moon and Mars

Humans, animals and plant life are mostly based on the 24 hour cycle. In particular agriculture could have a real problem with 2 weeks of dark and two weeks of light, as there are no serious amounts of agricultural in those latitudes, except perhaps expensive indoor lighted greenhouses. Whereas with a 24 hour light cycle there would be no need for adjustments at all. Also the extra, though small, atmosphere with its subsequent radiation, temperature, CO2 advantages would make greenhouse needs less then on the moon.

Of course there are many many other factors in picking a location outside Earth to settle beyond light cycles but Mars would have distinct advantages in agriculture, including other nutrients and access to water.
Brooks

--- In spacesettlers@yahoogroups.com, Dave Powell wrote: