Rick Martinez

Lore & Background

Rick Martinez is the pilot of the Ares III mission. During the mission's 31-sol expedition on Mars, a severe dust storm threatens the Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV). In the ensuing evacuation, astronaut Mark Watney is struck by flying debris and presumed dead. The remaining crew, including Martinez, takes off for their orbiting vessel, the Hermes, which will then return them to Earth.

Later, after NASA makes contact with Watney and informs the crew he is alive, astrophysicist Rich Purnell devises an alternative plan: send the Taiyang Shen launcher to resupply the Hermes, which will then use Earth's gravity to 'slingshot' back to Mars two years earlier than Ares IV. NASA director Teddy Sanders flatly rejects the idea, considering it too risky for the Ares III crew. Flight director Mitch Henderson surreptitiously sends the proposal to the crew, and they unanimously vote in favor and divert the Hermes. Martinez is part of this unanimous decision, demonstrating his commitment to rescuing Watney.

Reader's Guide

His role involves piloting the MAV during the emergency evacuation from Mars and later piloting the Hermes during the slingshot maneuver back to Mars. Key moments include: being part of the crew that unanimously votes to divert the Hermes back to Mars to rescue Watney, and being present during the final rescue sequence where Commander Lewis improvises to slow the Hermes and retrieve Watney. Martinez's defining trait is his loyalty to his crewmate, demonstrated by his vote to risk the mission to save Watney.

Did You Know?

• The Ares III mission explores Acidalia Planitia on Mars during a 31-sol expedition.
• Martinez is present when Commander Lewis improvises by exploding the Hermes' airlock to slow the ship for Watney's rescue.