Life on Mars, once the stuff of science fiction, is becoming an increasingly realistic goal for many scientists and space enthusiasts. But will we ever make the Red Planet our home? Let's take a look at (24) _______ of the challenges and possibilities.

     Mars has an atmosphere, although a thin one, primarily composed of carbon dioxide with traces of nitrogen and argon. This is a significant factor because it means that, in (25) _______ , we could potentially convert some of this carbon dioxide into oxygen. But it's easier said than done. The technology needed to accomplish (26) _______ task is complex and still under development.

     Then there's the matter of the Martian climate, (27) _______ is much colder than Earth's and often reaches -80 degrees Celsius at night. Moreover, Mars doesn't have a magnetic field to protect it from solar radiation, making the surface uninhabitable for extended periods.

     The distance from Earth to Mars is also a huge challenge. Depending on the alignment of the two planets, the journey could (28) _______ anywhere from six to nine months. It's a long, dangerous journey with no guarantee of a safe return.

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 24 to 28.