Embark on a captivating journey through the history and future of Mars exploration in this 29-minute talk by planetary environments researcher Sarah Stewart Johnson. Discover the scientific ambitions and deep-rooted human desire to find life beyond Earth that have driven Mars research from Galileo to Carl Sagan. Gain insights into Johnson's personal experiences working on NASA's Spirit, Opportunity, and Curiosity Rovers, and learn about the expectations for future missions. Explore topics such as the 20-year hiatus in Mars exploration, the resurgence of enthusiasm in the space community, and the significance of the Perseverance Mission. Delve into the possibilities of life on Mars, the broader implications for life beyond Earth, and the public's response to these endeavors. Understand the writing process behind Mars research and contemplate the compelling reasons for continued Mars exploration.