Quest gets new NASA R&D contract for Mars insulation

NASA has awarded Quest Thermal a new Phase I contract to begin work on a novel Mars surface insulation system.  Multi-Environment MLI (MEMLI) should be capable of providing high thermal performance protecting LOX and LCH4 during multiple mission phases for a Mars mission.  MEMLI is a fine-tuned discrete spacer system engineered for operation in-space during the cruise phase to Mars, then on-Mars surface to protect cryogenic fuels produced on the surface of Mars.  This technology will be needed to achieve a human presence on the surface of Mars or an expanded presence in the solar system. For geeks: why can't conventional multilayer insulation work on Mars surface?