Mars Atmosphere

Mars has a thin atmosphere composed mostly of carbon dioxide (about 95%), with traces of nitrogen and argon. This sparse atmosphere leads to cold temperatures, averaging around -80 degrees Fahrenheit (-62 degrees Celsius), and results in minimal shielding from cosmic and solar radiation. Dust storms can engulf the planet, sometimes lasting for weeks. Unlike Earth, Mars lacks a protective magnetic field, which further exposes its surface to radiation. These factors create a harsh environment, making it challenging for life as we know it to survive, but they also offer intriguing possibilities for future exploration and potential colonization.