The National Space Association had waited 50 years to get the funding and clearance to take their first step on the planet. Many land rovers had been sent to investigate, so they had definitive knowledge of the soil, rocks and climate.
No ozone layer protected the planet’s atmosphere. They were entering a world that was 95% carbon dioxide. The surface scorched during the sunlight hours and dropped into artic freezing temperatures at night.
Rover’s photographs indicated the ground's surface was barren and heavily beaten by storms of asteroids and devastating sun flares. DNA-based life was non existent, but rovers drilling found ice in the subterranean layers. Water clearly indicated some life form could have existed at one time.
Now eyes would take in the violent tundra. Feet would hit its surface. They had 24 hours to investigate and gather all they could.
As the astronauts probed over the top of a sandy crater an odd form was visible. The excitement was overwhelming and immediate clearance to investigate was given.
They approached slowing. There were no signs of danger. It was clearly inanimate. It was NOT indigenous to the planet! This was something created, shaped and formed by intelligence!
Exhilaration screamed through the astronauts! Shock surged with the knowledge they were not the first to step on to the surface of the planet! Some species had left this for them to find!
Bold in colors, it was a non-carbon based substance that had withstood time and the elements of this violent world. Immediate supposition led them to think it could be an obelisk to a civilization. The object was dismantled and returned to the ship for the long voyage home.
On June 1st, 2059 the National Space Association revealed the fantastic find to the world. The object was created by alien civilization which had once inhabited the planet. It was left as time capsule before their sudden end came. The name of their planet was chiseled on the side of the object for future generation to mark their signature in the universe.
So from that day forward, the long dead third planet from the sun would be remembered and referred to as “General Motors Truck!”
Vikki
I know! Freaky huh? Ever think about it? Are you aware we can actually do something to save our ozone layer?
The painting is my submission for Gallery #10, “A Road less Traveled.” I call it ‘Marianne’s Vision. ‘ It’s 16”x20”/ acrylic on un-stretched canvas panel. The original will be priced at $525. Prints will be available upon request. Contact me here.
My blog buddy, Idaho Artist and photographer Marianne Konvalinka had taken a photo of this old rusted truck. She allowed me to paint my version based on her photo.
My gallery- http://www.theredchairgallery.com/
The Artist Challenge- http://www.theartistchallenge.com/
All images and stories in this blog are Copyright 2009 Vikki North. Unauthorized use or duplication -in any form-is absolutely restricted by Law.
