4th Rock from the Sun: The Story of Mars

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 09 August 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

From David Bowie's extraterrestrial spiders to H.G. Wells' The War of the Worlds, Mars has permeated our culture in countless ways. But why is this particular planet so captivating? Ancient mythologies saw Mars as a violent harbinger of war, while astrologers found significance in its celestial dance. Stargazers were puzzled by Mars' unfamiliar characteristics, with some claiming to see canals crisscrossing its surface and others documenting startling faces and pyramids carved out of rusty rock. Did Martians exist? Were they intelligent, civilized beings?

Today, we have a much deeper understanding of Mars: its red hue, tiny moons, atmospheric (or lack thereof), and enigmatic past. Robots have traversed the planet's surface, capturing breathtaking images of the alien landscape and uncovering clues about its evolution. While the idea of little green Martians may be relegated to literature, evidence is mounting that the once arid, frozen planet was once warmer, wetter, and possibly teeming with microbial life. Soon, we may even embark on the mission to set foot on Mars. But what challenges lie ahead, and how are we preparing for them? Is there a future for humanity on Mars?

In her book, 4th Rock from the Sun, Nicky Jenner takes a comprehensive look at Mars, exploring its nature, characteristics, potential as a human colony, and its impact on 3rd Rock culture. Whether you're a science enthusiast, a literature lover, or simply curious about the possibilities of life beyond Earth, this book provides everything you need to know about the Red Planet.

Weight: 208g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472922526