National Geographic Maps: Mars, Exploring the Red Planet Wall Map - Compact - 21 x 16 inches

Well into the 20th century, astronomers envisioned a Mars that bore many parallels to Earth. The illusion was shattered by Mariner 4's flyby of the barren planet in 1965. Subsequent exploration has proved it to be a very different place: colder, incomparably drier, and with a thin atmosphere composed mostly of carbon dioxide. Martian topography reveals extremes that far outstrip similar features on Earth; the tallest mountain in the solar system - the mighty volcano Olympus Mons - is more than two and a half times the height of Earth's tallest volcanic peak, Mauna Loa. Explore Earth's most researched neighbor with this compelling and attractive map of Mars! This dual hemisphere map, though depicting a world alien to our own, elicits a sense of familiarity with the way it is presented. Drawn in Lambert Azimuthal Equal-Area projection, this map offers a uniquely detailed look into the planet's physical features. A drawn fresco of Mars' rugged, inhabitable landscape provides context, as does a separate elevation map. This map is an attractive product for the budding astronomer. It makes an essential companion to Milky Way: Earth's Galactic Home, and its size makes it perfect for a gallery wall. This map is found in National Geographic's 11th Edition World Atlas and is now available as a stand alone product. Printed on thick paper suitable for display on your home, school or office wall. Your map is rolled and packaged in a sturdy tube to protect it during shipment.