Mars: Making Contact by Rod Pyle

by Rod Pyle

The Red Planet holds an enduring fascination. Filled with extraordinary detail and documents, this book offers a visually stunning insider's look at how Mars has been explored and the challenges facing future missions. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory has been the principal explorer, launching the Mariner spacecraft that sped past Mars and snapped 22 grainy photographs in 1965. After many flybys and orbital missions, NASA finally landed the twin Viking probes on Mars in 1976. From 1996 through to the present day, a series of rovers have been sent to Mars, each more sophisticated. Today two rovers are operating on the red sands Curiosity and Opportunity. They have enabled us to make incredible discoveries, each more compelling than the last. Ancient rivers, lakes, ocean beds, and valleys have been charted, suggesting a landscape that could once have supported life. Preparations are already underway for a manned mission to Mars, and the book discusses the many challenges faced, from the design of the spacecraft to the impact on the human body, both physically and psychologically of such a journey as well as surviving on the planet's inhospitable surface.

Genres: Space, History, Astronomy, Science

Hardcover

About the author

Rod is the author of 15 nonfiction books (plus three for NASA) on his favorite subject, space exploration and technology. He tracks this fascination back to childhood, when his introversion led him to spend countless hours watching rocket launches, moonwalks and science fiction (which often led to truancy, countenanced by an understanding mother). While his contemporaries revered football players (basketball was not really a "thing" yet), he wanted nothing more than to become an astronaut. He now realizes that breaking into a sweat when it takes the elevator doors a few moments too long to open probably makes him a poor candidate for spaceflight.

While Rod actually attended seven colleges and universities in the search of the perfect major, he ended up getting a BA at the Art Center College of Design in film (because only poetry is less likely to get you a job), and an MA from Stanford University (where the weather is even better).

He lives in Pasadena, CA but dreams of azure seas and tropical shores.

Reviews

[Etienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A complete overview of the observation/exploration/colonization of Mars. From the early years, I was surprise to saw that we've been observing Mars for so long in modern space exploration, to today and even a brief part about what's next. All very well explain, good amount of details, and beautiful pictures. This is a very specific book on a very specific subject, for a very specific kind of reader. But it's very well made, clear and well organized. So if Mars or space exploration in general interest you this should probably be a good one for you! Good job!

[Maja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is everything. 🧡

Well written, well researched, well explained, well organized, containing beautiful pictures of our sister planet Mars.

This book is mostly about NASA’s missions and achievements so far, wish there was more on SpaceX but nevertheless it is a 5/5 for me.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A detailed and easy to read account of the exploration of Mars, from the early Mariner flybys, to Curiosity Rover and the plans for the future. A very interesting read, and filled with amazing photos of Mars.

[Adam Magnusson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Took about an hour and a half for me to get a thorough scan and understanding of what we have done on Mars. I think most people would be surprised by what kind of photos and knowledge we currently have. I cant wait for spacex to begin its voyage to mars!

[Daniel Q · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful resume of Mars exploration, with stunning photos.

[Elliot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cracking amount of detail. Very NASA focused but then they do seem to be the best at this. Beautiful images.

[V.L. Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the ultimate book on Mars and is a 'must-have' in any space enthusiast's library. The photos included are not just visually stunning, but they also illuminate each passage discussed to allow for a greater understanding of the material as it is covered. The continuity of flow between the pages allows for ease in reading. You will find yourself not wanting to put the book down until you have finished the last page. With the likelihood of humans one day colonizing Mars, this book is a great guide on the journey to the red planet...from the inception of the dream and each step of progress along the way.

[James Vaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both informative and fun! Visually captivating.
As an artist I appreciate the lavish use of illustrations and graphics.
The colorful, creative design, means every page is exciting.


James Vaughan – Aerospace Illustrator

[Katerina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its focus is definite and precise.