Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun, and an object of increasing importance in astronomy and exobiology. From Earth, Mars appears to be a red dot in the distant horizon, however this immaculate planet boasts towering ice cliffs, endless chasms and the solar system's largest volcano. Today's exploration of Mars is aggressive, conducting at least two planetary visits every possible opportunity. What does this desert planet tell us about the evolution of life in the universe and planetary development? Future missions are being planned around questions like these.