Mars has been a source of fascination for thousands of years. Ray Bradbury's classic novel, The Martian Chronicles, was published in 1950, a full 15 years before the first up-close photographs of Mars were taken by Mariner 4. As time went on and technology advanced, scientists started to realize that a manned mission to Mars could one day be possible. However, many stumbling blocks remain before that point can be reached. Vivid full-color photographs and detailed graphic organizers help young readers visualize what such a mission might entail—and whether it could happen in their lifetime.