Our knowledge of Mars has grown enormously over the last decade as a result of the Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey, Mars Express, and the two Mars Rover missions. This book is a systematic summary of what we have learnt about the geological evolution of Mars as a result of these missions. It describes the diverse Martian surface features and summarizes current ideas as to how, when, and under what conditions they formed, and explores how Earth and Mars differ and why the two planets evolved so differently. The author also discusses possible implications of the geologic history for the...

Mars has always held a special interest because of the possibility that life may have existed there, and its water history is crucial to understanding its geology, climatology, and biology. Moreover, recent studies in molecular phylogeny suggest that volcanic hot springs, which may have been common in early Mars, are also the most likely point of origin for life on Earth. In this book, Dr. Carr explores the history of water on Mars, including evidence that liquid water was once abundant at the planet's surface; ways in which the climate might have changed to accommodate liquid water; and what...

An up-to-date and highly illustrated principal reference for researchers and graduate students in planetary science.