As the whole world watched last month, Mars swung closer to Earth than ever in recorded history. It was quite an event. Observatories all over were awash in a sea of visitors eager for a glimpse of the Red Planet as it passed. The Purcell Observatory in Tulare was certainly no exception, as record numbers turned up for a gander through the telescopes. Mars didn’t disappoint. It might even have been showing off some. I’ve certainly never seen it look better. Neither has anyone else. Unfortunately, those who didn’t see Mars at its absolute best in August won’t get another chance for 284 years. Good news, though: The 2003 show isn’t over!