When it comes to Mars, the first image many people think of may be the red planet. But did you know that Mars has more than one color? Due to its composition of iron oxide, or rust, the red planet gives off a reddish tint. Other colors appear on Mars' surface, such as brown, brownish-red, green, yellow and white. The color of the surface of Mars is determined by its geological composition. It is believed that Mars was once covered by a shallow ocean, the shades of blue and green suggesting presence of water. The surface of Mars consists mainly of basalt, which is usually black in color, giving Mars its dark, grayish hue. In addition to the colors of the rocks, the different color landscapes of Mars occur due to the presence of dust storms on the planet, which give its surface a red and orange hue. These dust storms vary in size and frequency and usually occur during the months of spring and fall. As the dust storm subsides, the colors on the surface of the planet become more pronounced, creating spectacular views of the red planet. In addition to the color of the surface, dust and rock composition are also responsible for the darker color areas on Mars known as maria. Maria are large flat plains made up of basalt, which appears black in color. Mars is fascinating in more ways than one and it's certainly a colorful planet. To truly experience it, one has to be in its presence and take in the scenery. Professionals and amateur astronomers alike are fascinated by the secrets that the red planet holds, and even more so by its colors.