Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun and the second smallest planet in the Solar System, after Mercury.

Mars carries the name of the Roman god of war, and is often referred to as the 'Red Planet' because the reddish iron oxide prevalent on its surface gives it a reddish appearance.

Mars in Astronomy

• Mars' diameter ranges from 6,755 - 6,805 kms
• Circumference around Mars is 21,297 kms
• Mars has 2 known Moons, Deimos and Phobos
• Orbit distance - 227,943,824 kms
• Orbit period - 686.98 Earth days (1.88 Earth years)
• Surface temperature of Mars is -87 to -5 degrees celsius
• Length of day is 24.6 Earth hours
• Length of year is 687 Earth days
• First recorded - 2nd millenium BC by Egyptian astronomers

Mars in Astrology

• Rules Aries and the 1st House
• Spends around 6-30 weeks in each Sign
• Mars is a Personal / Inner Planet, the challenges are about the Self
• The function is the development of will
• The expansion of courage

Mars urges us to survive, to act decisively, be assertive and aggressive. To achieve desires, express bravery, courage, and the need for physical and sexual excitement.

Mars Asks

• What battles must I face?
• Where must I be more assertive if I am not to suffer pointless conflict and strife? How can I sharpen my will?
• How do I express my aggressiveness?