- Which other members of the Ares 4 crew would be able to survive on Mars? Who wouldn't?
- If you were in Teddy's position, would you have authorized the Hermes rescue mission? Explain.
- How might the story be different if there were actual little green men Martians around?
- Do you think Mark's experiences will affect future Ares missions? Explain.
- Did the Chinese government make the right decision by helping out NASA? Why or why not?
- Could Mark have survived without the help of NASA?
- What does the future hold for Mindy Park?
- Do you think the events of the novel will change the relationship between the American and Chinese space agencies? Explain.
- Do you agree with Mitch that Teddy is a "coward"? Why or why not?