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 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.
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.