While the technique for interpreting radar data had not matured to the extent that they had absolute confidence in the results, he believed that the radar signals received from the A-1 northwest site did indicate that it was unsafe. Above all, Young commented, they had to be responsible in how they used the data provided them. 74 Gerald A. Soffen . As project scientist, Sullen was interested in the process of scientists at work and concerned that that work be consistently credible. Caught in a philosophical frame of mind after a few days' rest, Soffen said he believed that the crisis over the landing sites had forced them to study the planet with an intensity that would not have existed if Mars had been as bland as Mariner 9 had led them to believe.
Inspiration works to a very small extent on any person.
It was most remarkable. Remarkable because I saw people who otherwise have to take days off, have to take time off, have to relax. That was the moment in which the true concept of a team met its test. It was like an army that was desperately fighting for its life. It was either going to win or it was going to lose.