Final answer:
Stendahl's motivation to come to Mars was likely driven by a passion for space exploration, possibly influenced by historical figures like Percival Lowell, and a personal interest cultivated through space media and professional accomplishments in space-related fields.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stendahl, as inspired by historic figures like Percival Lowell, likely had a profound motivation led by longstanding curiosity and a fascination with space exploration. Much like Lowell, who advocated for the possibility of intelligent life on Mars and inspired public interest through his convincing case for Martians creating canals on Mars, Stendahl's eagerness to travel to Mars may be driven by a deep-rooted passion for discovering new frontiers. Additionally, the influence of space-focused media—such as Star Wars, Star Trek, and The Right Stuff—along with professional engagements like developing a laser system for lunar experiments, could have further fueled his desire to venture to the Red Planet.