Mars is omnipresent when it comes to space exploration. Mesmerizing our night skies since the dimmest days of prehistory, it now occupies an outsized center of gravity in our modern space consciousness.

Mars is the heart of NASA’s search for life as well as an impressive array of increasingly advanced orbiters, landers, rovers, and now a helicopter.

The American public holds fluid views of Mars exploration, often indifferent yet with hardcore supporters and opponents. Overall, exploring Mars appears to be becoming increasingly popular. Rising intensity in public support for Mars exploration could have transformational impacts for support in Congress and the wider American space policy-making agenda.

Explore the shifting public opinion on Mars exploration, from growing favorability to diverse perspectives, and understand its impact on space policy and future missions.

Explore the evolving American attitudes towards NASA and space exploration, and understand the impact of public opinion shifts on space policy and congressional decision-making.