Experimental Protocol for Low-Mass ISRU Amendment of Martian Regolith Analogs: Perchlorate Reduction, pH Buffering, and Magnetic Water Retention

This protocol outlines a low-mass, scalable amendment formula for the remediation of Martian regolith analogs (e.g., MGS-1, MMS-1). The methodology addresses the three primary barriers to Martian agriculture: perchlorate toxicity (ClO_4^-), hypersaline/alkaline pH, and hydraulic inefficiency. Through a multi-stage chemical and biological approach—utilizing ascorbic acid for perchlorate reduction and magnetic biochar for moisture alignment—this formula aims to create a viable growth medium for pressurized extraterrestrial biodomes.