The Return (Aldrin and Barnes novel)

The Return is a science fiction novel co-authored by astronaut Buzz Aldrin and John Barnes, published in 2000. It is part of a series centered around the premise of humanity colonizing Mars. The novel explores themes of exploration, corporate control of space resources, political maneuvering on both Earth and Mars, and the challenges of establishing a self-sufficient Martian society.

The story focuses on various characters, including those involved in the corporate infrastructure exploiting Martian resources and the colonists seeking independence from Earth-based control. It delves into the complexities of adapting to the Martian environment and the societal structures that emerge in this new frontier. The novel incorporates realistic elements of space travel and colonization, drawing on Aldrin's own experience as an astronaut.