The fourth planet from the Sun and
the second-smallest planet in the Solar System.
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.
If you dream of going, here's what to expect…
24h37
Length of day
2 moons
Phobos & Deimos, The space potatoes
3 times
3 times the Mount Everest
The size of Mount Olympus
the highest mountain on Mars