The author, an astronomer, takes a critical look at the recent market debut of a space company, questioning the feasibility of a crewed mission to Mars. The article delves into the technical and logistical challenges of such a journey, highlighting the potential risks and costs involved. The author argues that the promises of a glorious epic journey to Mars may be a financial trap or a scam, diverting attention and capital from more pressing issues on Earth. The piece emphasizes the insurmountable risks and challenges at each stage of the mission, from launch to landing and survival on Mars. It concludes that the voyage to Mars, as sold by the space company, is an illusion, and that resources should be directed towards addressing real challenges on our own planet.