Why Mars Glows Red in the Sky

by Aloniab Gezae age 11

Mars, the red planet, is one of the eight planets in our solar system. It is a terrestrial planet, which means it is made out of rock and metals. Some scientists think Mars could once have supported life similar to Earth.

Mars has many names, most for the same reason. For example, it is titled “The Red Planet” because of its red color. Mars’ bloody-red appearance also led the Greeks and the Romans to name it after their gods of war: Ares for the Greeks, and Mars for the Romans. Additionally, ancient Chinese astronomers called it the “fire star.”

Have you ever wondered why Mars is red? Its surface is covered with dust rich in iron. When the iron combines with oxygen, it forms iron oxide, or rust, which has a distinct red color. This coating of rusted dust gives the planet its iconic tone.

Mars’ surface includes interesting features such as craters, valleys, and dunes. These landscapes were shaped by volcanic eruptions, asteroid impacts, and strong winds. The tallest mountain in the solar system, Olympus Mons, is an extinct volcano on Mars. Mars also has the largest dust storms in the solar system, which can stretch thousands of miles and even cover the entire planet.

Mars is now dry, but there is evidence that some channels and valleys could only have been formed by water. While liquid water has evaporated, there may still be water locked beneath its thick polar ice caps. With water present, there is a possibility that life could once have thrived on Mars.

Despite its dangers and harsh conditions, maybe in the future humans could possibly live there.

[Source: Planetarium]