Mars Facts For Kids
![](https://dev.theedadvocate.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/AdobeStock_76501495.jpeg)
Mars is known as the fourth planet from the sun (after Mercury, Venus, and Earth) and is often referred to as the “Red Planet” because it appears to be reddish in color. Here are some interesting facts about Mars that are suitable for kids.
1. Mars is the closest planet to Earth after Venus.
2. Mars is the second smallest planet in the solar system. It has a diameter of about 6,791 kilometers, which is half the size of Earth.
3. The surface of Mars is rocky and mountainous, and it has the highest volcano in the solar system, called Olympus Mons.
4. Mars has a thin atmosphere that is made up of mostly carbon dioxide, which is why it has a reddish hue. The atmosphere is also much thinner than Earth’s, which means there is barely any air pressure on the surface of the planet.
5. Mars has two small moons orbiting it- Phobos and Deimos. Phobos is the larger of the two moons.
6. The Martian day is just slightly longer than Earth- at 24 hours and 39 minutes.
7. Many scientists believe that Mars may have been capable of supporting life in the past, due to the presence of water on its surface. Evidence of dried up riverbeds, lakes and oceans suggest that there may have been life on Mars a long time ago.
8. Mars is being explored by scientists and researchers from around the world who are trying to find out more about the planet’s geology and potential for life. Several missions have been sent to Mars including the Mars Perseverance rover in 2020 which is still sending data back to Earth.
9. Mars may one day be colonized by humans looking to inhabit other planets. Scientists are trying to figure out how to make Mars habitable, by possibly terraforming the planet- which involves changing the atmosphere to create a more Earth-like environment.
10. Mars remains one of the most fascinating planets in our solar system and there is still so much to learn about it. We eagerly await the next scientific mission to Mars in the hopes of unlocking more of its secrets.
In conclusion, these are some interesting facts about Mars that kids should know. The planet holds a special fascination in the hearts of many, and it will continue to be an object of curiosity and exploration for generations to come.