Life on Mars What to know before we go

With all the robots exploring Mars and the growing talk about sending astronauts to the planet, many may wonder what all the fuss is about. Wonder no more. Weintraub (astronomy, Vanderbilt Univ.) offers a well-written and thoroughly researched book that deftly separates the historical, fictional Mars from our scientific understanding of the planet. At its core, Life on Mars is the story of humankind's quest to answer the deep question about the origin of life. Are we alone? Or is life common in the universe? As it is the most "Earth-like" known planet beyond our own and relatively nearby, it is logical to start with Mars. Without ignoring the interesting mistakes of scientists and the often-humorous misconceptions of nonscientists throughout history, Weintraub leads readers to the current evidence for and against past or present Martian life. He also raises the important concern that in our zest for exploration we must take care not to jeopardize what life, if any, may presently exist there. Life on Mars is a valuable lesson in how science is done that will appeal to readers interested in the search for life and, especially, the exploration of Mars. Summing Up: Recommended. All readers.--Terry D. Oswalt, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Weintraub (astronomy, Vanderbilt Univ.) considers the search for life on Mars. Given the increasing possibility for interplanetary travel, Weintraub frames the search by posing the question of whether it would it be right to interfere with it. He then details the history of the search beginning with ancient astronomers and sf and follows through to the ongoing Mars rover missions. In between these points are a fascinating collections of wild guesses, deep rivalries, scientific advances, lies, exaggerations, and errors both small and egregious. Weintraub's prose is not particularly artistic, nor is reader Chris Sorensen adding much with his serviceable voice, but the fascinating story is worth the time. Further, where Weintraub does shine is in explaining the required science so that a layperson can understand the nuanced arguments. He is also able to bring home the oddness of the supposed discoveries by careful discussion of each as though it were accurate until he notes the subsequent retractions, humiliations, and careers that were forever changed. Verdict This look at mankind's relationship with potential life on Mars is recommended for those interested in popular science, history, sf, astronomy, -futurism, and space colonization.-Tristan Boyd, Austin, TX © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.