4th Rock from the Sun: The Story of Mars

"We've been observing the planet for ages," writes Nicky Jenner in her fascinating debut, 4th Rock from the Sun. "Mars has never been one to blend in." Mars mystified early astronomers with its odd trajectory across the sky, Jenner explains, and its ruddy hue has long earned the Red Planet an association with violence, aggression and sexual passion. More than any other celestial body in our Solar System, Mars has influenced our culture: "It's everywhere you look and has been for years: astrology, myth and legend, some of the most iconic songs, Hollywood films and older cult classics, childhood cartoons, science fiction, and more."

4th Rock from the Sun is both a popular history of humanity's fascination with Mars and an enthralling work of science writing. Among Jenner's curious insights is an explanation for why humans held for more than a century a belief in intelligent life on Mars. It stems from a translation mistake: the Italian astronomer who discovered a starburst of gouges on the planet's surface described them as "canali," an Italian word for "channels." The word was translated into English as "canals," which connotes structures made by hand instead of natural phenomena. Earthlings thereafter became convinced of the existence of "little green men."

Jenner also looks at modern scientific discoveries made by Mars rovers (including the possible existence of microbial life) and ponders a future wherein humans colonize the planet. 4th Rock from the Sun is an engaging and comprehensive guide to the red dot in the night sky. --Amy Brady, freelance writer and editor

Powered by: Xtenit