Martian Polar Ice Caps

Martian polar ice caps, located at the planet's north and south poles, are composed mainly of water ice mixed with dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide). These caps grow and shrink seasonally, with the north cap being mostly water ice and the south cap containing a significant amount of dry ice. During winter, temperatures drop, causing frost and ice to expand onto the surface, then sublimate (turn directly to gas) as temperatures rise in summer. These dynamic ice caps reveal important information about Mars’ climate history, water presence, and potential resources for future exploration.