Martian Seasons
Mars experiences seasons similar to Earth, but with longer durations due to its longer orbit around the Sun. These seasons result from the planet’s axial tilt, which is comparable to Earth’s. During its summer in the southern hemisphere, Mars’ polar ice caps shrink, while they expand during its winter.
Gale Crater and Mount Sharp
The Gale Crater, located near Mars’ equator, is home to one of the most famous landmarks on the planet – Mount Sharp (Aeolis Mons). This towering mountain rises about 18,000 feet (5,500 meters) above the crater floor and is a prime target for exploration due to its diverse geological layers.