Human beings could visit Mars in the early part of the 21st century if the resources were made available, asserts science-fiction novelist Clarke. Citing a report issued by the International Space University after its annual symposium in Toulouse, France, in 1991, he outlines a three-phase Mars mission: precursor robot probes to locate suitable landing sites and resources, followed by an automatic space-freighter carrying supplies and equipment and, starting in 2018, a piloted expedition. Clarke leans toward nuclear-electric propulsion and sees the moon as a potential low-gravity base. He envisions a terraformed Mars, re-engineered for human habitation, complete with abundant vegetation, unfrozen lakes, increased oxygen in the atmosphere and the greenbelting of Olympus Mons (Mount Olympus), the giant Martian volcano. Clarke's own dramatic computer-generated images simulating a terraformed Mars, along with Viking orbiter photographs and artists' renditions (in all, 80 color and 20 black-and-white images) make the Martian future look tantalizingly real. Newbridge Book Club selection.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Veteran science fiction writer Clarke (2001: A Space Odyssey) presents a personal overview of the planet Mars ranging from astronomer Percival Lowell's (1855-1916) turn-of-the-century observations, which gave rise to the popular view that Mars was inhabited by an intelligent race of canal builders, to today's understanding of Mars as a much colder, dryer place?but still the most Earth-like planet in our solar system. Clark's futuristic vision postulates that Mars can be terraformed, its environment engineered on a global scale, to make it habitable for humans. Using computer-generated imagery, Clarke portrays the "greening of Mars" as the planet is slowly transformed over time. It's a visionary view, but one based on scientifically valid premises. Recommended for public libraries and large subject collections.
-?Thomas J. Frieling, Bainbridge Coll., Ga.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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