Home > Science > Space Exploration > Planets > Mars
Mars, 1950s telescope image C016 / 6321
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Mars, 1950s telescope image C016 / 6321
Mars, 1950s telescope image. Dating from February 1956, this observation of Mars was obtained by the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, USA. At the time, Mars was in opposition and at its closest point to the Earth. This was one of the best ground-based images of Mars available before spacecraft missions to Mars and telescopes in Earth orbit improved the resolution and quality of the images. At upper right is the south polar ice cap (white). The darker area is Syrtis Major Planum. At centre right is the Hellas Planitia impact basin (round, yellow). Complete, detailed maps of Mars were obtained by the Mars Global Surveyor mission (1996-2006)
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9239803
© DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 1950s 1956 Ball Bright Circle Circular Globe Mars Martian Planetary Science Red Planet Southern Sphere Spherical Telescope Cutouts Hellas Planitia Lowell Observatory Polar Cap Polar Ice Cap Telescopic
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Earth
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Planets
> Mars
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photo print, titled "Mars, 1950s telescope image C016 / 6321" takes us back to a significant moment in astronomical history. Dating from February 1956, this remarkable observation of Mars was captured by the renowned Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, USA. The timing couldn't have been more perfect as Mars was in opposition and at its closest point to Earth. Before spacecraft missions and telescopes in Earth orbit revolutionized our understanding of the Red Planet's surface, images like this one were considered among the best ground-based views available. Against a black background, we can clearly see the south polar ice cap shining brilliantly white at the upper right corner. Just beside it lies Syrtis Major Planum - a darker area that adds contrast to the vibrant scene. At center-right is an impressive sight: Hellas Planitia impact basin appears as a round yellow feature on Mars' surface. This spherical marvel showcases nature's power and reminds us of the planet's turbulent past. Although this image provided valuable insights into Martian geography during its time, complete and detailed maps were later obtained through missions like Mars Global Surveyor (1996-2006). Nevertheless, this historic photograph serves as a testament to humanity's relentless curiosity about our neighboring planet and highlights how far we've come in planetary science since then. Captured by DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY for Science Photo Library, this stunning print offers both scientific value and aesthetic appeal with its rich colors and intricate details. It transports us back to an era when exploration of celestial bodies relied heavily on telescopic observations – truly encapsulating an important chapter in our quest for knowledge beyond Earth's boundaries.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
