Dominating Mars is Olympus Mons, the **largest volcano in the Solar System**. It soars over **26 kilometers high** and stretches across a base larger than Poland. This massive structure piques the curiosity of scientists, offering insights into Martian volcanic history that could reshape our understanding of planetary activity.
Located in Mars’s western hemisphere, Olympus Mons is visible even from Earth. Early astronomers named it Nix Olympica, or “Olympic Snow,” based on telescope views long before probes reached the planet. NASA’s Mariner 9 mission in 1971 confirmed its colossal form and topography. Unlike steep, explosive volcanoes on Earth, Olympus Mons is a **shield volcano**, characterized by low-viscosity lava that spreads out gently, forming a broad, flat dome.
This volcano covers approximately **300,000 square kilometers**, making it one of the largest geological features known. Its size results from long-lasting eruptions rather than sudden explosions. On Mars, the lack of tectonic plate movement means lava can accumulate in one spot for millions of years. A **magma hotspot** beneath Olympus Mons has fueled its growth, allowing for repeated lava flows without disruption.
Interestingly, **Mars’s static crust** contributes to Olympus Mons’s unique stature. Unlike Earth, where volcanic drift creates chains of volcanoes, Mars has allowed this geological giant to rise without interruption. Recent studies highlight that Olympus Mons last erupted about **25 million years ago**, which is quite recent in geological terms. This ongoing interest has been bolstered by discoveries of frozen water on its surface—around **60 Olympic swimming pools’ worth**—suggesting that the site may hold more secrets than previously thought.
Experts believe studying Olympus Mons can illuminate not just Mars’s history, but also provide clues about volcanic activity on other planets. As we explore other celestial bodies, the understanding gained from Olympus Mons may even inform how we approach future missions beyond our solar system.
