Being the closest planet to Earth, much research has been done on Mars and what exists inside the planet. These findings show that Mars has deep canyons, craters (that may or may not have running water), large volcanoes, and other significant features. Exploring Mars is feasible in the near future; we’ve compiled interesting destinations that Mars tourists can visit. Let’s dive in!
Medusae Fossae
Medusae Fossae is one of the most mysterious formations to visit on Mars. One study suggested that Medusae Fossae probably formed from huge volcanic eruptions that occurred many times over 500 million years.
Courtesy: ESA
However, the most likely explanation is that it is a large volcanic deposit, which is about a fifth of the size of the United States. These volcanoes, sculpted by the wind over time, probably formed Medusae Fossae.
Olympus Mons
Located in the Tharsis volcanic region and about the size of Arizona state, Olympus Mons is the most extreme volcano in the solar system. At 25 kilometers tall, the volcano is about three times the height of Mount Everest.
Courtesy: Wikipedia
The huge shield volcano was formed after lava slowly came down its slopes, so it’s easy for beginner climbers to climb since it has an average slope of 5%. There is a 53-mile-wide depression at its summit, which was formed by lost magma chambers.
Recurring Slope Lineae in Hole Crater
Recurring slope lineae are strange Martian features that form beside steep craters when the weather is warm. Pictures of these interesting features from the crater make them a sight to see on a trip to Mars.
Courtesy: NASA
However, Mars tourists aren’t likely to see these recurring slope linaea up close as their nature is still being discovered. Tourists may be at risk of contamination if the RSL hosts alien microbes; admiring them with binoculars is the safest option.
Valles Marineris
Valles Marineris, which has a length of about 3000 km, is the largest canyon on Mars and the solar system. The canyon is four times longer than the Grand Canyon. How was Valles Marineris formed?
Courtesy: Wikipedia
The most likely explanation, according to scientists, is that lava moving in the volcanic region of Tharsis pushed the crust forward. This process broke the crust into fractures- and the fractures grew into the Valles Marineris canyon.
Gale Crater and Aeolis Mons
Gale Crater, which became popular by the Curiosity Rover landing, hosts substantial evidence of past water. Throughout its journey, the rover found more evidence of water along the crater floor.
Courtesy: NASA
Another interesting discovery made by the rover was a nearby volcano called Aeolis Mons or Mount Sharp. The rover is currently climbing Aeolis Mons and finding out about each strata’s geography.
