Mars Fact Sheet - Learn the many differences between Earth and Mars in this geographical Fact Sheet on the Red Planet. Mars Virtual Landing Sites - Stand on the surface of Mars and view in all directions using QuickTime VR technology. The Mars landing sites contained here are computer generated simulations based on real USGS topographical data. The 1970's Viking mission did not return a Mars rock sample to Earth. Further crucial information about Mars comes from an unexpected source - meteorites that arrived on Earth unaided by technology.
Materials here reveal facts, missions, and educational resources about Mars.
Research - This area contains information regarding primitive life research of the planet Mars. Learn how a NASA-funded team found the first organic molecules thought to be of Martian origin. The Mars Observer spacecraft was to be the first U.S. spacecraft to study Mars since the Viking missions 18 years ago. The Mars Observer spacecraft fell silent just 3 days prior to entering orbit around Mars. Pathfinder deployed a small rover called Sojourner to explore the Martian landscape.