Question

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, astronomers believed they had discovered a network of canals on the surface of Mars. This discovery suggested that intelligent life and civilization might exist on the planet. But by the 1960s, technological advances in space exploration disproved this theory. Scientists realized the canals did not exist after all, and Mars was a barren environment with no Martian life. This lack of intelligent life did not mark the end of humanity’s interest in Mars. Over the last 50 years, researchers have sent rovers and robot spacecrafts to collect data about Mars. They want to better understand the planet and inform future missions.

Which of these is true of the history of Mars exploration?

A
Scientists were wrong about intelligent life on Mars, but they still want to learn more about the planet.

B
Scientists discovered intelligent life on Mars and have sent spacecrafts there to make contact with Martians.

C
Scientists continue to explore the network of canals on Mars in search of intelligent life.

D
Scientists were proved wrong about intelligent life on Mars and decided to stop exploring the planet.

Answer 1

A Scientists were wrong about intelligent life on Mars, but they still want to learn more about the planet.