By what decade had improved telescope optics and atmospheric understanding caused the perceived canal network to thin out considerably?

Answer

The 1920s and 1930s

As technology advanced and observational techniques improved, coupled with a better understanding of Earth's atmospheric effects, the crisp, linear features Lowell mapped began to disappear from telescopic views during the 1920s and 1930s.

By what decade had improved telescope optics and atmospheric understanding caused the perceived canal network to thin out considerably?
MarsastronomyobservationplanetCanal