The Mars Express orbiter, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2003, arrived at Mars and made significant discoveries, including evidence of ancient water in the form of ice and minerals that suggest past water flow. This mission was pivotal in enhancing our understanding of Mars' geological history and its potential to have supported life. The findings from Mars Express have laid the groundwork for future exploration missions and have reignited interest in the quest for life beyond Earth.

The Mars Express Orbiter's findings in 2003 revealed the planet's wet history, inspiring poetry that delved into themes of hydration and the possibility of life. Poets like Kimiko Hahn used these discoveries to explore human longing and the search for connection in both the cosmos and the natural world.