MARTIAN NEWS - DATE 12004.0104
All the News around the Solar System from a Martian Viewpoint

SECOND EARTH PROBE LANDS SUCCESSFULLY

The current spate of interest in our planet by the Humans has resulted in a second probe landing on Mars - this time successfully and harmlessly.

It was allowed to land where it was aimed; at Gusev Crater, just south of the equator, where it will be a great distance from any Martian inhabitants or equipment. It appears to be much larger than any previous effort, and will be monitored closely to see what its purpose is. Initial examination suggests that it is harmless. Despite its size, it is totally devoid of life, which suggests that the Humans are aware of the problem of microbial contamination from their own world. It is also assumed that this one will be mobile, possibly to a greater extent than the 11997 probe ("Pathfinder" - E. Herring) so it will be observed closely to ensure it does not stray into any sensitive areas of our planet.

Translated from original Martian by Elwood Herring
See Earth Web version of this story here

© P. Williams 2004

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