atmosphere of Mars

Mars has a thin atmosphere, primarily composed of carbon dioxide (about 95%), with small amounts of nitrogen and argon. This atmosphere is roughly 100 times less dense than Earth's, making it difficult for liquid water to exist on the surface. Temperatures on Mars can be extremely cold, averaging around minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 60 degrees Celsius). Dust storms are common, sometimes covering the entire planet. Because of its thin atmosphere, Mars lacks sufficient protection from harmful radiation from the Sun, and it does not have the weather patterns we experience on Earth.