Abstract

An empirical cross-check confirms that Carlotto's three-dimensional maps of the face of Mars, photographed at two sun angles, are valid representations. Simulated views from the ground suggest that if intelligence were to have created or modified the features of Cydonia, they were more likely meant to be viewed from above. The face exhibits a striking degree of facelike qualities as viewed from above in all three dimensions, in contrast to natural features on the earth. Critics of the intelligent origin hypothesis assert that the face is natural by analogy to the Old Man of the Mountain in New Hampshire, which is also natural. But the Old Man is rendered in only one dimension. Also, Carlotto's more recent results showing a non-fractal face argue for possible non-natural origin. Higher resolution images, taken under diverse lighting conditions, will need to be obtained before the possible role of extraterrestrial intelligence can be conclusively addressed.