What's Happening?
David Baron's new book, 'The Martians,' delves into the historical fascination with Mars, particularly the belief in Martian canals during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book recounts how American astronomer Percival Lowell promoted the idea that these canals were constructed by Martians for irrigation purposes. This belief was fueled by observations made by astronomers like Giovanni Schiaparelli, who sketched what he perceived as canals on Mars. The book also highlights the impact of technological advancements and societal changes during that era, which contributed to the widespread interest in Mars and its potential inhabitants.
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Why It's Important?
The historical obsession with Mars, as explored in Baron's book, underscores the enduring human curiosity about extraterrestrial life and the universe. This fascination has influenced scientific research and popular culture, inspiring figures like Robert Goddard, the inventor of the liquid rocket engine, and contributing to the golden age of science fiction. Understanding this historical context provides insight into current space exploration efforts and the motivations behind them, as well as the cultural and scientific legacy of past astronomical theories.
