“The symbolism seemed so apt. The same technology that can propel apocalyptic weapons from continent to continent would enable the first human voyage to another planet. It was a choice of fitting mythic power: to embrace the planet named after, rather than the madness ascribed to, the god of war.”

American astronomer and science communicator of the mid-to-late 20th century, Carl Sagan made complex cosmic concepts accessible to the public through his books and television series. He championed scientific skepticism and the search for extraterrestrial life, blending rigor with poetic clarity to inspire wonder about humanity’s place in the universe.