Launching a mission to Mars requires a powerful rocket to escape Earth’s gravity, precise timing to align with Mars’ orbit. Mars facts are shocking indeed. Here we take a look at Mars planet facts, temperature, moons, gravity and how to get there.
Requisites for covering the 300 million mile journey to Mars. Here we take a look at Mars planet facts, temperature, moons, gravity and how to get there. (NASA)
US space agency NASA has been exploring Mars planet for decades now with instruments down on the Red planet. Billionaires like SpaceX chief Elon Musk have indicated their desire to set up a human outpost there. However, embarking on this interplanetary voyage (Earth to Mars) is a formidable effort and requires intricate and meticulous planning along with the latest technology to support the plans formulated. Here we take a look at Mars planet facts, temperature, moons, gravity and how to get there.
Mars temperature
Mars facts are truly mind-boggling. Mars temperature can be as high as 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). However, it goes to the other extreme too. Mars temperature can be as low as about -225 degrees Fahrenheit (-153 degrees Celsius).
Mars moons
There is a shocking fact about Mars moons. Actually, there are two Mars moons. They are called Phobos and Deimos. Did you know that it is theorised that they are captured asteroids, NASA says!
Mars gravity
Mars gravity is much less than Earth gravity. It is in fact 38% less. Mars gravity is 3.72076 m/s2.
How to get to Mars
Powerful Rocket
To go to Mars, humans first have to escape Earth’s gravity, the journey begins with a powerful rocket. The weight of the spacecraft determines the strength of the rocket needed for lift off. The heavier the spacecraft, the more robust the rocket must be.
Perfect Timing
Timing is crucial for a successful mission to Mars. Mars and Earth orbit the Sun at different speeds and distances, sometimes being far apart and at other times coming closer together. Approximately every two years, the two planets align perfectly, allowing a spacecraft to reach Mars with the least amount of rocket fuel. This window is critical because the journey spans over 300 million miles.
Precise Targeting
Precision is key in targeting Mars. Launching towards the current position of Mars is futile; instead, you must aim for where Mars will be when the spacecraft arrives years later. This concept is similar to how a quarterback passes the ball in American football, aiming for where the receiver will be rather than where they are. Along the way, minor adjustments in the spacecraft’s trajectory may be necessary to ensure it remains on course.
Journey Duration
If all goes according to plan, the spacecraft will reach Mars in about seven to eight months. However, landing on the red planet presents an entirely different set of challenges, making the journey to Mars just the beginning of the adventure.
