Polar Ice Caps
Mars has permanent polar ice caps composed of water ice and frozen carbon dioxide (dry ice). These caps grow and recede with the changing seasons, much like Earth’s polar ice caps. Studying these polar regions provides valuable information about Mars’ climate and past geological activity.
The Martian Atmosphere
Despite its thin atmosphere, Mars experiences weather phenomena such as dust storms, clouds, and seasonal changes. The Martian atmosphere is primarily composed of carbon dioxide (95.3%), with traces of nitrogen, argon, and other gases. Its low atmospheric pressure and lack of a robust magnetic field contribute to the planet’s harsh surface conditions.