“From TIMNA to MARS” is a novel of archaeology and science fiction for non scientists and inquisitive readers. The techno-industrial revolution is endangered by fast consumption of rare earth metals without which many products taken for granted could not be manufactured. The disappearance of hybrid cars, jet engines, oil refineries, cancer fighting medications and smartphones would take earth back to the eighteenth century.

Scientists are stunned by the discovery of rare earth rhenium in a Timna copper mine. Pure rhenium has never been found on earth.

Inspired by interpretations of Einstein’s theory that not all elements in the universe ended up on our planet after the big bang, Professor Avner Amram is impassioned by his idea of searching for rare earth deposits on asteroids and planets. NASA and ISRA, Israel’s Space Research Authority, adopt his plan. CIA, KGB, SVR and Mossad agents are embroiled in espionage, counter intelligence and murders. Avner and his associates are drawn into the mayhem. Russia’s attempt to destroy an unmanned Israeli Mars orbiter results in an unexpected discovery.