Missions To Mars

by Larry S. Crumpler
Missions To Mars cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Science and Innovation
Technical
  • ID: 3170
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9780063047372
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published: 2021-11-09
  • Reviews: 3

Missions to Mars offers a vivid insider account of NASA's most vital and exciting missions to the Red Planet, illustrated with full-color photographs. Dr. Larry Crumpler, a key figure in the Mars Exploration Rover Project, shares his firsthand experiences and the incredible data gathered by the rovers. This book recounts the history of Mars, from ancient astronomical observations to modern technological breakthroughs, including the first images from the rover Perseverance. /n/nThe Spirit and Opportunity Rovers exceeded expectations, functioning for fifteen years instead of the planned ninety days. The data they collected allowed scientists to reconstruct Mars' geological past, revealing a planet once inundated with water and potentially capable of supporting microbial life. This compendium explores fundamental questions about Mars, illuminating its significance in the solar system and the human imagination.

Reviews
Eli Bendersky's website · Eli Bendersky · 2022-06-30
informative 3.50

The reviewer enjoyed the book but found some of the humor off-putting. Overall, they found it to be a comprehensive and informative read.

Eli Bendersky liked the book but mentioned that the toilet humor and other dirty jokes were off-putting. Despite this, they found the book to be comprehensive and informative, providing a detailed account of Mars exploration. The reviewer appreciates the depth of information but wishes the humor was more subtle. Overall, they found the book to be a valuable read, especially for those interested in the technical aspects of space exploration.

Quick quotes

    I liked this book, though all the toilet humor and other dirty jokes are off-putting.

    A comprehensive and informative read.

    Provides a detailed account of Mars exploration.

The Big Issue · 2021-11-20
wonderful 4.00

The reviewer finds the book to be a wonderful exploration of Mars, appreciating the author's personal involvement and the engaging narrative. The book is seen as a valuable addition to the genre.

The reviewer expresses enthusiasm for the book, noting that it meets their high expectations. They appreciate the author's personal connection to the subject matter, which adds a unique perspective. The narrative is described as engaging and informative, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in space exploration. The reviewer also highlights the book's ability to make complex topics accessible and enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    And they have all been just as wonderful as I had hoped.

    Missions to Mars by Larry Crumpler is published on November 25 (HarperCollins, £25).

    A comprehensive and engaging account of the exploration of Mars.

Goodreads · 2021-11-09
magnificent 4.50

The book is praised for its comprehensive and engaging account of Mars exploration, with a particular highlight on the author's insider perspective. The inclusion of historical context and personal anecdotes makes it a standout read.

This review highlights the book's ability to captivate readers with its detailed and engaging narrative. The author's firsthand experiences and historical insights are particularly noted as strengths. The reviewer enjoys the way the book balances technical information with personal stories, making it accessible and fascinating. They appreciate the depth of knowledge shared and the engaging writing style that brings the history of Mars exploration to life.

Quick quotes

    In this magnificent compendium, Dr. Crumpler recounts the history of the Red Planet, from the earliest days when ancient astronomers turned ...

    A vivid insider account of some of NASA's most vital and exciting missions to ...

    Packed with meaningful information and photographs, and deftly written in down-to-earth prose.

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