Sierra Nevada Space Systems showed video of a successful flight of their Dream Catcher orbital space vehicle this year.

FORBES: Private Space Transportation Reaching New Heights

The heroes of Mr Morton's book are the astronomers who yearn to solve Mars's scientific puzzles, the science-fiction writers who project their politics on to Mars's blank canvas, and the space-flight enthusiasts who dream of Martian colonies.

ECONOMIST: Mars

But it is worth remembering that just over a century ago, heavier-than-air flight seemed an impossible dream.

ECONOMIST: Electric planes

The 52-year-old who, in 17 years in management has always wanted the chance to test himself amongst the English top flight, described his first shot at an English trophy as a "dream come true".

BBC: Alex McLeish earns shot at Wembley glory