[MikkoFinell]

> If we nuked the polar ice caps (or similar method to warm + evaporate them) it would generate enough of an atmosphere for the external pressure to be livable - maybe even breathable.

Source?

Even granted that would be possible, it would be an enormous waste. Let's say it's possible to use the polar ice caps to create a breathable atmosphere, why do it for the whole planet instead of using it strategically to pressurize domes where people actually live? Added bonus: The domes provide partial shielding for the radiation on Mars. If you believe the ice on Mars can sustain a breathable global atmosphere for ten thousand years, how long will it last when used in closed systems like domes?

[hndamien]

I guess it means living indoors until we find another Earth candidate which we won't be able to travel to.

[samplatt]

That's fine. I was simplifying for the purpose of illumination. No disagreement on your points.