Not directly related to "Life on Mars" but just something to share - few years ago, I attended the seminar at MIT called - The Mars Society to listen to Robert Zubrin. I joined the club relating to space at Virginia Tech. I can't remember what's it called.... it was 8 years ago. I called in advance (although a very short notice) and MIT was gracious enough to provide a C.A.R.T. service. I was very delighted that they provided it without question. All they asked was when and where. Prop up for MIT! lol
Anyway - it was a very very fascinating lecture. A good 2 hours lecture, I believe.
Robert Zubrin (a wacky guy but extremely bright) wrote several books about Mars and I bought 2. He signed my book but I cannot exactly remember what he wrote. I think it was - "See you at Mars." He pushed for federal funding and programs for Mars exploration and he oversees R&D program (not hired by NASA) such as new Mars suit, techniques, research, etc. He now works for Lockheed Martins. He is one of the most influential voices in Mars program and I was very glad to have an opportunity to listen to his lecture and to shake his hand but he's still a wacky one lol. his sense of humor is quite peculiar LOL.
here's a
link for list of Mars books that may interest you.
When I went to Virginia Tech... I picked electrical engineering major because I was obsessed with space & robotic stuff. I joined a couple of clubs - Mars club and Satellite Club. I participated in project that made nano-satellites to be launched at just above mesophere because I had some electrical/soldering experience. After a couple semesters, the reality set in and somehow I lost interest in space. I lost faith in myself because I wasn't doing well in electrical engineering courses and it wasn't what I thought it'd be. I wasn't just cut out for it. oh well.... I just didn't have that level of dedication and seriousness like those people I worked with at the club but I still do follow and read about space exploration. It continues to inspire me in a different way even though my career is not related to it. I still employ some of that inspiration in my work. Keep on truckin'!
Zubrin's quote from 1997 - "
Not going to Mars by 2005 is an abdication of human responsibility. We shouldn't leave it until the year 3005."