“Tripping Toward Mars shines when illuminating the ethical dilemmas that crop up during space exploration … This is not just a story about reaching Mars; it is a reflection on human nature, the drive for discovery, and the sacrifices made in the name of progress.”
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About the Author
Growing up, Richmond Scott wanted to become a space scientist, but got stuck orbiting other high-tech worlds instead. He lives in Washington, DC. This is his first novel.
About the Book
What happens when the co-commander of NASA’s first crewed mission to Mars becomes a criminal defendant?
A darkly funny, near-future sci-fi novel of space, politics, and survival.
Tripping Toward Mars has the answer.
Astronaut Addy Johnson was supposed to be the face of humanity’s next great leap. Instead, he’s standing trial in federal court.
Addy and his wife, Bria, have secured coveted spots on NASA’s first crewed mission to Mars, joining another married couple who happen to be their closest friends—and bandmates. Before launch, they navigate a surprise hit record, dodge a media scandal, and endure brutal survival training in Antarctica as they prepare for a journey powered by cutting-edge nuclear thermal propulsion.
Then, millions of miles from Earth, Addy makes a decision.
Determined to beat international rivals to the Red Planet, he defies Mission Control—and the warnings of his own crew—by taking a gamble that jeopardizes not only the mission, but their safe return home. Back on Earth, the fallout is swift and political, fueled by a reality-TV President eager to hurl NASA into a black hole. For Addy’s jury, the question goes beyond whether he broke protocol.
Was he a reckless glory seeker—or a hero?
Blending scientific authenticity with biting satire—and featuring a cast that includes amorous robots and a power-hungry space mogul—Tripping Toward Mars explores ego, loyalty, marriage, and the perilous cost of being first.
Because the greatest danger isn’t Mars itself—it’s the choices we make along the way.
Now circulating in nearly 600 libraries across the United States.