Mars is one of those planets that we can easily spot in the night sky, thanks to its red color! Mars gets its color from the iron oxide that is found on the planet’s surface.

Mars is the fourth planet from the sun, just after our planet, Earth. Like Earth, Mars has volcanoes, canyons, and polar ice caps. However, Mars is quite a bit drier and cooler than our planet.

This planet is one of the brightest in the night sky, which makes it easy to spot. And this month on May 30th, 2016, Mars will be closer to the Earth than it has been in awhile. You’ll be able to see some of the features easily with a simple telescope, so you definitely want to take a look!

Fun Fact – Mars has four seasons like Earth does – though they are quite a bit drier and colder.

TEACHING SCIENCE AT HOME

Want to learn more about Mars? Check out the following articles:

• Here are a few fun facts about Mars from Planets for Kids.
• What’s it like on Mars? NASA has the answer!
• {Video} Watch this video about a very favorable apparition of Mars.

RELATED HOMESCHOOL SCIENCE ACTIVITIES

Keep the learning going with these science activities!

• Decide on what to take on the long journey into space with this adventure to Mars activity.
• Have fun with your kids as they answer this space word scramble.