The Case for Mars

In this summary you will learn

• Why astronauts should go to Mars
• What exploring Mars entails
• Why human missions to Mars are both feasible and essential

getAbstract rating

Why you should read The Case for Mars

Robert Zubrin combines genuine enthusiasm for space exploration with the levelheaded pragmatism you want in an engineer (which he is). That second quality is essential, as skeptical readers may find themselves shaking their heads at the matter-of-fact way in which Zubrin dispels objections to going to Mars. He makes the journey sound not only easy but logical and inspiring. The book has just two minor weaknesses: First, Zubrin can seem partisan – arguing not just for Mars but against alternative projects, like lunar exploration. Second, occasionally he goes into more detail than really necessary. For instance, plans to name Martian months seem premature, albeit interesting. getAbstract recommends his fascinating book to skeptics who don’t see why society should bother with space, to those old enough to remember the glory days of the Apollo missions, and to anyone interested in bold scientific exploration. This is a trip you can take.

About the Authors

Astronautical engineer Robert Zubrin heads Pioneer Astronautics and founded the Mars Society. Richard Wagner is the former editor of Ad Astra, an astronautical journal.