Mars is the most Earthlike of all of the planets. The weathering of iron-rich rocks on its surface gives the planet a reddish color. This is why Mars is called the “red planet.”
Though the surface of Mars is very old, as shown by the presence of many impact craters, it once had many volcanic eruptions. However, the most recent volcanic activity was possibly less than 100 million years ago. Olympus Mons on Mars is the largest volcano in the solar system. The height of Olympus Mons is nearly three times that of Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth. If this volcano were located on Earth, its base could cover the distance from Cleveland to Washington, D.C.!
Creative Writing Suppose you are a reporter who is going to interview the chief scientist or astronaut responsible for one of the space missions described in the time line. Prepare at least five questions about the mission. Then write a brief news story, including the responses that you would expect to each of your questions.