Mars is about half the size of Earth in terms of diameter, which makes it the second smallest planet in the solar system after Mercury. It is known as the “Red Planet” because of its reddish appearance. This is due to the abundance of iron oxide on its surface.
Mars is the only planet in the solar system besides Earth where evidence of liquid water has been found. It is also thought that there is frozen water at the poles of the planet and under its surface.
Space missions have proven that Mars once had a warmer climate. This, along with the presence of other elements such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, could have offered suitable conditions for life in the past. Similarly, organic molecules have been discovered, suggesting that it was – or is still – home to microscopic life forms.