In 2033, the first human mission to Mars enters its atmosphere, while currently, SpaceX attempts to land the world's first reusable rocket.

In 2033, the Daedalus crew struggles to find shelter that can provide protection from radiation. In present day documentary, European Space Agency and Roscosmos partner to launch an orbiter that will help future Mars missions prepare for settlement.

A new crew arrives on Mars four years after the Daedalus landed to help execute plans for expansion and search for life. McMurdo Station in Antarctica serves as a modern example of how humans will settle Mars.

In 2037, the psychological pressures of life on Mars reveal themselves while the crew is trapped inside the habitat. In present-day, scientists study the effects of extreme isolation in various long-term analog missions.

In 2037, a devastating tragedy in the colony forces everyone on Mars and Earth to question the mission. In present-day, commercial space company SpaceX again attempts to pioneer the rocket technology that would help mankind reach the red planet.