Mars

Nicknamed the Red Planet because of the iron dust that covers its surface, Mars is much more than just an orange dot in the sky: it is Earth's most fascinating neighbour and one of the most studied worlds in the entire Solar System.

Its dry, rocky soil, giant sandstorms, and ocean-deep canyons tell an ancient story: that of a planet that once harboured liquid water and perhaps… the conditions for life ! Fossilized rivers, ice caps, and hydrated minerals stand as silent witnesses. Moreover, NASA recently discovered potential evidence of ancient life in the form of rock formations on the surface of Mars, dubbed "leopard spots" or "poppy seeds," which could be signs of past life!

Just like our own planet, the Martian year is marked by spring, summer, autumn, and winter. At both its poles, Mars has water in the form of ice, and recent studies, based on seismic data, even suggest a vast reservoir of liquid water beneath the Martian crust ! Another avenue that could reveal microscopic life forms!  

Mars is also home to the giant Olympus Mons, the largest volcano in the Solar System, three times taller than Everest! And with its air so thin it couldn't fill a balloon, toxic rust storms that are poisonous to breathe, and its low gravity, it remains a challenge for explorers… but also humanity's next big step.

Robots like Curiosity and Perseverance are already driving there, searching for clues to the Martian past, and one day, perhaps human footprints will mark its red dust.

NEWS FLASH: In Roman mythology, Mars is the god of war (equivalent to Ares in Greek mythology). Ares was known for his brutality, impulsiveness, and bloodthirsty nature! His two moons are named after his two sons, along with the goddess Aphrodite, Deimos and Phobos, who are the personifications of fear and terror in war.

Sticking Mars on your notebook or computer celebrates curiosity, discovery, and the courage to explore the unknown, a red symbol of passion and cosmic adventure. Our red neighbour's sticker awaits you on our online shop!

___________________________________________________________________________

PUN 1: Is that a large volcano, or are you just happy to see me?

PUN 2: I'm an Olympus Mons-ter!