The Gods of Mars · Chapter
Endnotes explained
The author explains the translation of Martian measurements into Earth values for clarity, noting that the original manuscript contains extensive scientific data currently being studied by the International Astronomic Society.
What happens
The author explains the translation of Martian measurements into Earth values for clarity, noting that the original manuscript contains extensive scientific data currently being studied by the International Astronomic Society. A brief description of the Martian day and time divisions is provided, along with a partial table of Barsoomian time units.
Key passages
“Wherever Captain Carter has used Martian measurements of time, distance, weight, and the like I have translated them into as nearly their equivalent in earthly values as is possible.”
The author has converted all Martian units into approximate Earth equivalents.
Explains the editorial approach to the narrative.
“the Martian day is a trifle over 24 hours 37 minutes duration (Earth time). This the Martians divide into ten equal parts, commencing the day at about 6 a.m. Earth time.”
A Martian day is slightly longer than an Earth day and is split into ten segments starting at 6 AM Earth time.
Provides a key detail about Martian timekeeping.