Abstract

Our limited understanding of the Martian environment, has stimulated much speculation on the possible existence of a Martian biota. This understanding is being steadily improved by ground-based observing techniques. Rapid advances have been made by the Mariner IV flyby and will be made by the Mariner 1969 flybys and the Mariner 1971 orbiters. In situ measurements, including some aimed at detecting manifestations of life, will be carried out on the Viking landers in 1973. We should then be in a position to discuss more quantitatively than at present the various questions related to indigenous Martian life forms.

© 1969 Optical Society of America

Optical Activity for Exobiology and the Exploration of Mars

B. Halpern
Appl. Opt. 8(7) 1349-1353 (1969)

Exobiology and the Exploration of Mars–2

D. G. Rea
Appl. Opt. 9(6) 1269-1269 (1970)

Space Photography and the Exploration of Mars

B. C. Murray and M. E. Davies
Appl. Opt. 9(6) 1270-1281 (1970)

Measurements in the Atmosphere of Mars

Alvin Seiff
Appl. Opt. 8(7) 1305-1314 (1969)

Polarimetry of Mars

K. L. Coulson
Appl. Opt. 8(7) 1287-1294 (1969)