Final answer:
Arthur C. Clarke is a celebrated science fiction author whose works involve Mars, a planet that has inspired many other writers in the genre. Stories like 'The Martian' question the realism of such narratives based on scientific knowledge of the Martian atmosphere. Both crime literature and science fiction occupy important spaces in literature, often merging intrigue with scientific exploration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Arthur C. Clarke is a renowned science fiction writer known for his captivating stories about space and the planets, which often includes Mars, a planet that has greatly inspired science fiction writers throughout the years. The Martian, a popular book and film, begins its drama with the protagonist being knocked over and losing consciousness due to an intense wind storm on Mars. This scenario, while dramatic, has been questioned for its realism considering what is known about the thin atmosphere on Mars. Clarke's science fiction stories are part of a wider array of scientifically informed literature that can be found in subject indices of science fiction stories online. Writers like William Hartmann, Geoffrey Landis, and Ludek Pesek have contributed to this genre, often basing their narratives on credible scientific background.
It is an intriguing fact that despite its popularity, crime literature has not gained the same level of academic respect as other literary forms. Yet it remains a significant and impactful genre within the literary community, much like science fiction, which also explores themes such as planetary exploration and astronomical phenomena.