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111 Then comes this violent explosion. A scientific analysis of the cloud by astrophysicists here on earth proves it was of atomic origin. The first reaction would undoubtedly be an immediate resurvey of Mars. As quickly as possible, we would establish an orbiting space base--out of range of Martian rockets--and try to find how far they had advanced with atomic bombs. Samples of the Martian atmosphere would be collected and analyzed for telltale radiation. Observer units would be flown over the planet, with instruments to locate atom-bomb plants and possibly uranium deposits. The rocket-launching bases would also come under close observation. We would try to learn how close the scientists were to escaping the pull of gravity. Since Mars's gravity is much less than the earth's, the Martians would not have so far to progress before succeeding in space travel. The detailed survey by our space-base observers would probably show that there was no immediate danger to the earth. It might take one hundred years--perhaps five hundred-- before the Martians could be a problem. Eventually, the time would come when Mars would send out space-ship explorers. They would undoubtedly discover that the earth was populated with a technically advanced civilization. Any warlike ideas they had in mind could be quickly ended by a show of our superior space craft and our own atomic weapons--probably far superior to any on Mars. It might even be possible that by then we would have finally outlawed war; if so, a promise to share the peaceful benefits of our technical knowledge might be enough to bring Martian leaders into line. Regardless of our final decision, we would certainly keep a lose watch on Mars--or any other planet that seemed a possible threat. Now, if our space-exploration program is just reversed, it will give a reasonable picture of how visitors from {p. 131) space might go about investigating the earth. Such an investigation would tie in with the general pattern of authentic flying-saucer reports: 3. Frequent surveys of America in the latter part of the nineteenth century, as we began to develop industrially, with cities springing up across the land. 4. Periodic surveys of both America and Europe during the gradual development of aircraft, from the early 1900's up to World War II. 1. World-wide sightings at long intervals up to the middle of the nineteenth century. 2. Concentration on Europe, as the most advanced section of the globe, until late in the py vennn nineteenth century.