Estonan

Estonan is a fictional chemical compound that appears in the novel "The Martian" by Andy Weir. In the narrative, the compound is created by astronaut Mark Watney as a method to generate water on Mars. Watney's process involves reacting hydrazine, a rocket propellant, with oxygen and then burning the resulting substance. This combustion, he calculates, will produce a significant amount of water vapor.

The fictional chemistry behind Estonan is a simplified representation of real-world chemical reactions. Hydrazine (N2H4) is a highly reactive compound. When combined with oxygen (O2), it can undergo combustion. The simplified reaction presented in the book is essentially 2 N2H4 + O2 → 2 N2 + 4 H2O. This reaction produces nitrogen gas and water. Watney's plan is to condense the water vapor to make it available for consumption and to support his potato crops.

The term "Estonan" itself is a portmanteau, combining "Esther," the name of the mission commander, and "on," suggesting a connection to a product or outcome. The creation and use of Estonan are critical plot points in "The Martian," highlighting Watney's ingenuity and his ability to apply scientific principles in extreme conditions. While the specific compound and its synthesis are fictional, the underlying concept of generating resources from available materials is a central theme in space exploration and survival. The story emphasizes the importance of scientific knowledge and problem-solving in overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.