We journey to our most explored planetary neighbor to unravel its complex geological history and challenging atmospheric present.

Dr. Hakeem Ali-Bocas Alexander guides us through the evidence of Mars's watery past and the engineering hurdles we must overcome to walk on its rust-colored surface.

•Explore the monumental scale of Olympus Mons, the solar system's largest volcano standing three times taller than Everest, and Valles Marineris, a canyon system that would stretch across the continental United States.

•Follow the compelling evidence of Mars's wet past—from ancient river valleys and lakebeds to mineral deposits—that suggests the planet was once capable of supporting life.

•Investigate the mysterious recurring slope lineae, dark streaks that appear seasonally and hint at the possible presence of liquid brines flowing on modern Mars.

•Confront the challenges of Mars's thin, carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere, which creates extreme temperature swings and planet-encircling dust storms that future explorers must overcome.

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