Mars Water Discovery: A Humorous Cartoon Analysis

Context and Intended Audience

This cartoon, created by award-winning Australian political cartoonist Andrew Marlton, was published shortly after NASA's discovery of water on Mars. The intended audience is primarily individuals aged 15-35. The cartoon presents a complex and serious topic humorously, making it engaging for a younger audience who may prefer learning through humor rather than a purely factual article.

Cartoon Description and Analysis

Initial Panel: Dogs and Mars

The cartoon is presented as a comic strip, employing exaggeration and whimsical characters, such as dogs, to address a serious issue. It begins with a headline announcing the discovery of water on Mars. Below, two dogs are depicted observing Mars, which is illustrated with a blue dot representing water. An arrow points to Mars, clarifying the subject for the audience. The messy handwriting adds to the humor, suggesting it's the dogs' commentary, as if they could write.

Second Panel: Martian Perspective

The next panel introduces two "Martians," as indicated by an arrow, observing the Mars rover sent by NASA. Another arrow labels the Martians as a "possible racist stereotype." This element contributes to the humorous tone, prompting the reader to imagine a racist Martian. Above each panel, a black text provides context for the drawing. The Martians are symbolic of humans on Earth, who can be prejudiced and hesitant to interact with other races, likening it to having "cooties." This serves as a critique of society, highlighting our focus on financial gain over helping others.

Third Panel: Scientific Dogs

The following panel depicts two "scientist" dogs in lab coats examining a machine labeled "Super-Duper Space-o-Scope." The accompanying text describes a large body of water. One dog exclaims, "You won't believe this," while the other is humorously attired in snorkeling gear. This scene further enhances the comedic aspect of the cartoon. It's noteworthy that dogs are a popular subject on social media, which helps attract a younger audience.

Overall Interpretation

• The cartoon uses humor and satire to comment on human behavior and societal issues.
• The portrayal of Martians as potentially racist stereotypes reflects human prejudices.
• The dogs' reactions and the "Super-Duper Space-o-Scope" add a layer of absurdity and entertainment.
• The cartoon effectively engages a younger audience through its humorous approach to a significant scientific discovery.