A Study Of Percival Lowell's Mars

The search for the imaginary hypothetical Martian civilization is an issue which should arouse our attention.In order to deepen understanding of Mars,so called “Martian civilization” and The search for the imaginary hypothetical Martian civilization at the late nineteen century,this paper analyses Mars and its Chinese version New Explanation of Yinghuo systematically.In Mars,Lowell demonstrated the existence of Mars' air and water,because of the lack of water,Martians built canals,which were seen as narrow line system on Earth.Thus,he believed that there could be some kind of Martian life.In fact,the so-called Mars canal is just a delusion,he should have seen it clearly if he used a bigger telescope.In addition,his careless and precipitation also led to his failure.In spite of its mistakes,Mars has played an important role in the study of Martian canals and Martian life,it is an instructive attempt in plumbing the mysteries of the universe.Mars also have influence on science fiction,and that led to a transformation of world view of people.The translation and publication of New Explanation of Yinghuo also show its notable impact.