Mission to Mars The search for meaning For nearly two centuries,
the planet Mars has captured the imagination of Earth-bound
astronomers. The Red Planet displays intriguing features and
ever-changing conditions, which have lead to claims that life
and flowing water once existed on its surface. In the late 19th
century, American astronomer Percival Lowell became the most
ardent supporter of claims for intelligent life on Mars. He was
inspired by reports from Italian scientist Giovanni Schiaparelli
of long, straight lines criss-crossing the surface.1 Lowell
claimed the existence of an advanced alien civilization was
without doubt.2 But by the 1950s, it was clear that the Martian
atmosphere was too thin to support most, if not all, forms of
life. There are dangerous levels of ultraviolet radiation
striking the surface of the planet and a complete absence of
oxygen in the atmosphere. This made it almost impossible to
conceive of any form of advanced life existing there. Missions
to Mars However, in June this year