The fourth planet from the Sun and the second-smallest planet in the Solar System, being larger
than only Mercury.
Mars carries the name of the Roman god of war and is often referred to as the
"Red Planet". The latter refers to the effect of the iron oxide prevalent on Mars's surface, which gives
it a reddish appearance distinctive among the astronomical bodies visible to the naked eye.
Mars is a terrestrial planet with a thin atmosphere, with surface features reminiscent of the impact
craters of the Moon and the valleys, deserts and polar ice caps of Earth.
Travelers of the Future, Beware! Mars is no place for the faint-hearted.
Arid, rocky, cold and apparently lifeless, the Red Planet offers few hospitalities. Fans of extreme
sports can rejoice, however, for the Red Planet will challenge even the hardiest souls among us.
Home to the largest volcano in the solar system, the deepest canyon and crazy weather and
temperature patterns, Mars looms as the ultimate lonely planet destination.