"The Martian" is a science fiction novel written by Andy Weir and published in 2011. The story is set in the near future and follows the character of Mark Watney, an astronaut who becomes stranded on Mars after a mission gone wrong. He must use his ingenuity and knowledge of science and engineering to survive on the hostile planet and find a way to signal for rescue. The novel is written as a series of journal entries by Watney, giving readers an intimate look into his thoughts and struggles as he fights to stay alive. The book explores themes of survival, human ingenuity and the drive to survive against all odds. The book was a commercial success and was adapted into a major motion picture directed by Ridley Scott in 2015. It has won several awards, including the Hugo award for best novel.