The Search for Life on Mars: The Greatest Scientific Detective Story of All Time

The Search for Life on Mars is a comprehensive account of one of humanity's most intriguing quests, focusing on the Perseverance rover mission and the upcoming missions from the United States, China, and the European Space Agency. The book recounts the greatest scientific detective story ever, exploring myth, false starts, red herrings, and bizarre coincidences in the search for ancient life on the Red Planet.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 424 pages
Publication date: 12 May 2022
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing

From the captivating tales of H.G. Wells' The War of the Worlds to the gripping portrayal of life on Mars in Andy Weir's The Martian, and the awe-inspiring images captured by the robotic rovers Curiosity and Opportunity, Mars has long captivated our imaginations as the most probable other habitat for life in our solar system. However, the Red Planet is now receiving unprecedented attention as new missions, scheduled to launch from the United States and China this year, and with the European Space Agency's ExoMars mission set for 2022, this book presents a comprehensive account of the greatest scientific detective story ever.

For the first time in forty years, the missions bound for Mars will embark on a quest to uncover evidence of ancient life on its neighboring world. This latest chapter in an enduring quest spans myth, false starts, red herrings, and remarkable coincidences, alongside triumphs and heartbreaking failures. Written by two seasoned journalists with extensive experience covering space exploration, The Search for Life on Mars offers a definitive exploration of the challenges and complexities encountered in the search for life beyond Earth.

The book draws upon over a hundred interviews with experts from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and other esteemed institutions, who generously share their insights and captivating stories. While it pays homage to the early Mars missions, such as Viking 1 and 2, the book's primary focus lies in the groundbreaking experiments and revelations from the most recent missions, including Curiosity, which continues to explore potentially habitable sites where water once existed, and the Mars Insight lander, which has recorded over 450 marsquakes.

Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, The Search for Life on Mars provides a comprehensive and captivating account of humanity's relentless pursuit of life beyond our planet. It sheds light on the historical context, scientific advancements, and technological challenges that have shaped our understanding of the universe. This book is a testament to the indomitable spirit of exploration and the unwavering determination of scientists to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos. Whether you are a seasoned space enthusiast or a newcomer to the wonders of the universe, this book will transport you on a journey of discovery and inspire you to continue pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.

Weight: 502g
Dimension: 150 x 229 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781950994298