Mission to Mars:
The Final Frontier
Jaidyn Rethman
The mission is clear: Mars is within our reach, and they will endure the unknown.
I joined Ben and Alistar in the cargo bay, the three of us maneuvering carefully in the tight space. The module was massive, a feat of engineering designed to expand once deployed, creating a livable environment on Mars. It was incredible to think that something so compact could unfold into our new home.
–Jaidyn Rethman, The Final Frontier
“A gripping and immersive journey to Mars that blends scientific intrigue with vivid imagination. The diary-style storytelling and incredible attention to detail made me feel as if I were right there on the ship, experiencing every twist, turn, and emotion alongside the characters. The descriptions were so rich and specific that I could visualize every scene as if a movie were playing in my mind. I couldn’t put the book down—I had to know what happened next! An unforgettable adventure, masterfully told.” – Zach Sharpell

Meet Jaidyn Rethman
Our 1st Place Winner, Jaidyn Rethman, a 14-year-old freshman at Swan Valley High School in Saginaw, Michigan, is a driven and multi-talented student with a passion for space exploration.
As a Chief Science Officer on the Leadership Council and an active member of student government, she is dedicated to leadership and STEM education. When she’s not in the classroom, you’ll find her on the soccer pitch, the golf course, or immersed in her creative pursuits—art, traveling, and playing the guitar.
An avid reader, Jaidyn draws inspiration from adventure novelists like James Rollins and Michael Crichton. With a deep fascination for the solar system, she aspires to become an aerospace engineer and contribute to NASA’s mission of space exploration.
GRADE
Career of Choice:
Aerospace Engineer
Intended Career Path:
Aerospace Engineering with minor degrees in Geology and Astrology.
” I decided to join the Athenian Mission to Mars project because I wanted to do something that would inspire me. I had never really put myself out there and showed the world what I could do. Now that I’m starting my high school career, I want to start doing that more, especially with my intended career path. In setting my goals and writing the story of my future, opportunities will develop to guide me along my path.” – Jaidyn
Mission to Mars: A Journey Like No Other
An Anthology of Unforgettable Adventures from Award-Winning Young Authors
Mission to Mars is not just a book—it’s the final chapter in an inspiring contest by young visionaries from across the USA. Experience the captivating stories that brought these dreams of space exploration to life.
Your purchase helps fund the innovative programs that Athenian provides, supporting students who love STEM, creativity, and communication. By investing in this book, you’re also investing in the future of education and the next generation of explorers, builders, and storytellers. Thank you for making a difference!
It’s Not Too Late!
You might have missed the contest, but the adventure is far from over! You can still subscribe to the course and dive into writing your own Mission to Mars story. Imagine your life 20 years from now as you embark on a 30-day journey to Mars with your four teammates.
By subscribing to the Mission to Mars course, you’ll gain access to exclusive interviews with experts, thought-provoking writing prompts, and all the worksheets you need to fuel your creative writing journey.
Don’t let the countdown end—subscribe today and let your story take flight!






