By Lilian Afegbai
The ideas presented by George J. Haas in The Great Architects of Mars suggest some fascinating and unconventional theories about Mars’ surface features. He interprets several formations as possible remnants of an ancient civilization, proposing that these structures, like the keyhole shape, parrot geoglyph, and pyramids, are too geometrically complex to have been naturally formed.
Haas’ observations align with his experience as an artist, using his ability to recognize intentional design in patterns. His research is built on the premise that certain formations on Mars exhibit the kind of detailed geometric order associated with human-made architecture, such as pyramids, geoglyphs, and grid-like city layouts.
However, his ideas are met with skepticism from many scientists, who argue that these interpretations fall into the realm of pareidolia—our brain’s tendency to recognize familiar shapes, such as faces, in random or abstract patterns. In the case of the Martian formations, they suggest that Haas might be seeing what he expects to see—structures that look like ancient man-made creations, but may just be natural geological features.
The Martian Atlantis Complex
The starburst structure
The debate about whether Mars once harbored life or an advanced civilization is likely to continue until more detailed exploration and investigation are conducted. If humans do make it to Mars in the coming decades, as proposed by Elon Musk and other space enthusiasts, the truth about these intriguing Martian formations could eventually be uncovered.
What do you think—do you lean more toward the possibility of ancient Martian structures or natural formations?
