Red Planet Day

Red Planet Day is observed around the world on November 28^th. It’s a holiday dedicated to Mars, the most studied planet in the solar system. Numerous robotic missions have explored the Red Planet, and who knows where this research will lead in the future?

History

November 28^th was chosen to honor the launch of Mariner 4 in 1964. The spacecraft flew past Mars eight months later, approaching within 9,846 km of the surface and returning 22 black-and-white images. Scientists hand-colored one incomplete frame, revealing a cratered, Moon-like terrain, harsh climate conditions, and a very thin atmosphere.

To this day, many still dream of life on Mars—though it isn’t yet possible. A popular film about surviving on the planet is The Martian, starring Matt Damon as an astronaut stranded on Mars who must cultivate a new home.

Interesting Facts

• Mars’s atmospheric pressure is about 1/160th that of Earth.
• A Martian year lasts 687 Earth days—nearly twice as long as ours.
• With only about one-tenth the mass of Earth, Mars’s gravity is 38% of ours.
• Temperatures range from +35 °C at the equator to –153 °C at the poles.
• Ancient riverbeds and mineral deposits show that water once flowed on Mars.
• Cold-season CO₂ geysers erupt near the south polar cap.
• The Martian sky often appears yellow-orange due to fine dust.

How to Take Part

• Read up on Mars missions and share the latest discoveries with friends.
• Join an online community or local astronomy club to discuss Mars research.
• Host a Mars-themed gathering—decorate with red accents and planetary models.
• Stream documentaries or podcasts about the Red Planet and discuss your favorite insights.

When is Red Planet Day in 2025?

Red Planet Day is observed on November 28 each year.

Observations