The planet Mars is often referred to as the “Red Planet” because of its reddish appearance. This color is primarily due to the presence of iron oxide, or rust, on its surface. The iron in the Martian soil reacts with the small amount of oxygen in the atmosphere, creating a reddish hue that is visible from space and gives Mars its distinctive look.

In addition to the reddish color, Mars also has some areas that may appear more orange or brownish due to varying mineral compositions and dust storms on the surface.