Topographical map of Mars' southern hemisphere created using data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA). Color-coded elevation data shows highest points (white) in the Tharsis region and lowest (deep blues/purples) in the Hellas Basin. An ellipse indicates the Mars Polar Lander's targeted landing site near the South Pole. Image reveals Martian surface features without liquid water, highlighting the planet's geological history.

Astronomy Picture from 03/12/1999

Southern Mars

Source: https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap991203.html


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