Description

This book gives a new insight of Mars by adopting an original outline based on history rather than on subtopic (atmosphere, surface, interior). It focuses on the past and present evolution of Mars and also incorporates all the recent results from the space missions of Mars Express, Spirit and Opportunity. This book goes to the heart of current planetological research by providing a unique selection of pictures - some previously unpublished - and schematic drawings. The authors describe the magnificent scenery on Mars and introduce a new world to reveal the workings of the planet. They answer the questions: How was Mars formed? Why has its evolution followed a different path to that of Earth? What do its river beds, volcanoes and glaciers tell us about its past? Could life have existed there? Does it exist there now? What processes 'drive' Mars today? In the final part of the book the authors describe current research to prepare for future missions to Mars.