Life on Mars

Last August, NASA scientists announced that a rock thought to be from Mars showed evidence of fossilized microorganisms, and the world was instantly shaken by "Martian" jokes that had lain dormant for 30 years. As much an examination of pop culture as science, this concise and engaging video traces the history of our belief in "little green men" on the red planet, up to and including the supposed "face" that appears as a natural land formation on the surface. Dazzling NASA imagery of the planet is included--along with a couple of blurry photos that appear to have been taken by the Hubble Space Telescope before it was given its new lens. The program also discusses past and present Mars probes (including one set to land on Mars in September of this year). Given the outstanding production values, the popularity of the topic, and an unbeatable price, this is highly recommended for public and school libraries. Aud: I, J, H, C, P. (R. Reagan)