8 great destinations on Mars that tourists may visit in the future

Mars, a planet of stark contrasts, boasts towering volcanoes, deep canyons, and the enigma of potential running water. As we set the wheels in motion for the first colonies on the Red Planet, it's destined to become an astonishing destination for future tourists. While the landing sites for these missions will prioritize safety and practicality with flat plains, there's a prospect of selecting locations within a few days' drive to encounter intriguing Martian geology. Here are some must-visit destinations for future Martians.

Olympus Mons

Olympus Mons reigns as the most colossal volcano in our solar system, situated within the Tharsis volcanic region. Approximately the size of Arizona, it stands at 16 miles (25 kilometers) in height, nearly three times the elevation of Earth's Mount Everest. With an average slope of just 5 percent, it is a relatively accessible shield volcano. At its summit, a striking depression spans 53 miles (85 km), believed to have formed due to magma chambers losing lava and subsequent collapse during an eruption.

Tharsis Volcanoes

The Tharsis region hosts a dozen colossal volcanoes, all significantly larger than their terrestrial counterparts. With a diameter of about 2500 miles (4000 km), these Martian giants have likely been erupting for nearly two billion years, making up half of Mars' history. Notable among them are Ascraeus Mons, Pavonis Mons, Arsia Mons, and Tharsis Tholus, each towering approximately 16 miles (25 km).

Valles Marineris

Valles Marineris is Mars' answer to the Grand Canyon, stretching a remarkable 1850 miles (3000 km) in length, roughly four times the Grand Canyon's size. Its formation remains a subject of debate, with many scientists attributing it to the Tharsis region's role in pushing the crust upwards, leading to fractures that expanded into Valles Marineris over time.

The North and South Poles

Mars features icy polar regions, each with unique compositions. During winter, temperatures plunge to such extremes that carbon dioxide condenses into surface ice, subsequently sublimating back into the atmosphere during the summer. While the northern hemisphere ice completely disappears, a portion of carbon dioxide ice remains in the southern atmosphere, exerting significant influence on Martian climate and generating winds and other phenomena.

Gale Crater and Mount Sharp

Gale Crater gained fame as the landing site of NASA's Curiosity rover in 2012. The rover unearthed evidence of ancient water, including a streambed, and continues to ascend Mount Sharp (Aeolis Mons) to explore geological features. Notably, Curiosity detected complex organic molecules within 3.5-billion-year-old rocks, hinting at Mars' potential for past life.

Medusae Fossae

Medusae Fossae remains one of Mars' most enigmatic regions, and while UFO crash theories circulate, the more probable explanation is a colossal volcanic deposit. Over time, wind erosion has sculpted the rocks into striking formations, with research suggesting it formed over 500 million years through immense volcanic eruptions.

Recurring Slope Lineae in Hale Crater: The Mystery of Water on Mars

Mysterious recurring slope lineae (RSL) form on the sides of steep craters during warm weather. The true nature of RSL remains elusive; some speculate running water, while others suggest atmospheric water or dry sand flows. Future exploration may provide answers, though planetary protection protocols must ensure protection from potential microbial contamination.

'Ghost Dunes' in Noctis Labyrinthus and Hellas Basin

Mars, shaped predominantly by wind, still bears traces of ancient water, such as "ghost dunes" found in Noctis Labyrinthus and Hellas Basin. These remnants offer insights into the Red Planet's past environment, with the possibility of sheltered areas hiding ancient microbes, shielded from radiation and wind.