First Person On Mars

David Anderson: Thank you for joining us today, Harper ‘Artemis Red’ Singh. It's an honor to be speaking with the first person to set foot on Mars.

Harper Singh: The honor is mostly yours, I'd imagine. After all, heroes aren't interviewed every day.

DA: Fascinating perspective. Let's dive into the Graviton Drive. How revolutionary is this technology, and what was it like to pilot a ship equipped with it?

HS: The Graviton Drive isn't just an achievement of human ingenuity; it's a symbol of our ascension to the galactic stage. Granted, we had a little help from advanced races who saw our potential. It's a masterpiece of energy efficiency and environmental friendliness, replacing our outdated chemical rockets. As for piloting it, that required finesse and skill, qualities I offer in abundance.

DA: Were there any moments when you felt the drive's technology was pushing the limits, possibly endangering the mission?

HS: Every technology has its risks. But then again, so does stepping out of your front door. My expertise helped mitigate those risks, steering us to success.

DA: The crew seemed closely knit, at least initially. How did the dynamics evolve during the journey?

HS: We started as comrades, but confined spaces and high stakes can amplify personalities. Needless to say, it became evident that leadership, namely mine, was essential.

DA: Could you share a specific incident that challenged the crew’s unity, but was overcome thanks to leadership?

HS: During a solar storm, our shielding failed momentarily, causing some panic. It was my quick decision-making that enabled us to reroute power and enhance the shields. That incident cemented my role as the cornerstone of the team.

DA: Let’s switch gears. Your first words on Mars have been quoted extensively. Do you think they will stand the test of time like Armstrong's?

HS: When I first stepped onto Mars, I was supposed to say something poetic, something that would stand alongside "Another great leap for mankind." But what escaped was, "My god. The desolation. Like standing on the bones of a world." It wasn't scripted, it was purely visceral, and NASA tried to play it off as a radio delay issue. It was an unintended comment that ended up capturing the feeling of the occasion, and perhaps that's why it will resound through history.

DA: Interesting. Speaking of history, there were several names proposed for Mars Base Alpha. How influential was your voice in the final decision?

HS: Names like Marsopolis and Ares Station were thrown around. But Mars Base Alpha had a universal appeal. And yes, my opinion might have tipped the scales.

DA: There's been controversy surrounding your online interactions, which some view as polarizing. Do you think this affects your legacy?

HS: My legacy isn't written by social media—it's written by actions, by milestones, by being the first. Those who can’t accept my personality also fail to see the magnitude of my achievements

DA: Before we wrap up, any advice for future pioneers who look up to you?

HS: Don't just look up to me; strive to surpass me. Complacency is the enemy of progress. So, take my accomplishments as a starting point, not the finish line.

DS: Thank you for sharing these insights, Artemis, and for your candid, if not controversial, perspectives.

HS: You're welcome. But remember, when you write about Mars, don't forget who made it possible.