Space-faring nations of Earth are engaged in an assault on the mysteries of the planet Mars.  Five robotic spacecraft, two rovers and 3 orbiters, are now exploring the atmosphere, surface and interior of Mars.  The Spirit and Opportunity rovers are returning fantastic images, as well as the signatures of minerals all of which point to a past very different from the Mars we see today.  Ancient Mars is now thought to have had liquid water, possibly oceans, on its surface over 3 billion years ago.  If true, one of the greatest mysteries of Mars will have been solved.  With the knowledge that the planet was once wet, together with even more sophisticated missions of exploration, scientists can hope to answer the question that has enchanted humans for over 100 years:  Was Mars once an abode of life?  The lecture focuses on our emerging understanding of Mars and the plans for future robotic exploration by NASA and other national and international space agencies.  The latest images from Mars will be presented and discussed.