And "Podkayne of Mars" is just a book but 56 years later you can find Sci-Fi fans arguing earnestly about whether she lived or died.
People love a good mystery.
If it is ever resolved half of the people will be disapointed and maybe a bit angry.
Best to leave it as is.
PS She died. Had to be.
Yes, I always figured she didn't make it. Didn't the grandfather say to the parents "you'll lose him too," referring to Poddy's brother, who set off the nuclear bomb?