Martian Climate

Mars has a cold, thin atmosphere mostly made of carbon dioxide, leading to extreme temperature variations—from as high as 20°C (68°F) at the equator during daytime to as low as -125°C (-195°F) at night. The planet experiences seasons due to its tilt but less reliably because of its elliptical orbit. Winds can be strong, creating dust storms that sometimes encircle the entire planet. Overall, Mars is a harsh environment with low atmospheric pressure, making liquid water rare and challenging to sustain. Its climate dynamics are complex, influenced by its rotation, atmosphere, and surface features.