Our Planets Found: Mars

When found:
Known since ancient times.

By who:
Ancient Babylonian and Egyptian astronomers.

Description:
Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun, a rocky world with polar ice caps, volcanoes, and canyons, often called the Red Planet due to iron oxide on its surface.

Distance from Earth:
Closest distance: approximately 34 million miles.

Length of Year & Day:
Year: 687 Earth days.
Day: 24.6 hours.

Interesting fact:
Mars has the largest volcano in the solar system, Olympus Mons, which is about 13.6 miles high, nearly three times the height of Mount Everest.

Like its Finder:
Like the ancient Egyptians who associated it with their god of war Horus, Mars's red color evokes blood and conflict, and its dusty storms can rage like battles.