Siccar Point, as seen by the Curiosity rover, is located near Gale Crater on Mars. (Photo credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS; Processing and license: Kevin M. Gill)
Is Mars really as red as people say? – Jasmine, 14, Everson, WA
Since ancient times, people from different cultures around the globe have observed Mars. Because the planet appears reddish, it is often called the Red Planet.
The planet's name in English comes from the Romans, who named it after the god of war because its color reminded them of blood. In fact, Mars' reddish hue is due to the presence of iron oxide in its rocks and the dust that covers its surface.
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