Maps of Mars

Ebisawa : Mottoni : Frassati : Aeschliman : Peach : Adelaar

A three-part map by Shiro Ebisawa (1957), with very detailed nomenclature. This map is regarded, by the BAA Mars Section, as the standard reference for names, as the IAU map (below) contains too few names to be of real use. However, both are average representations of the planet, and Mars will never exactly resemble either map. Since the epoch of the 1950s, major and apparently semi-permanent albedo changes have occurred in the Casius–Boreosyrtis region. Frassati’s more recent map (below) gives a better impression of that area. Large versions (1900 x 3000 pixels).

The standard IAU map by G. de Mottoni (1957), based upon photographic work from the 1940s and 1950s. It shows all the detail visible with small apertures, and is good for quick reference. Large version (2060 x 2200 pixels).

The map drawn by Mario Frassati (2001) for the Unione Astrofili Italiani. It is based upon that organisation’s work during 1988–99, and shows the principal features of Mars at the 1999 opposition. This is a convenient up-to-date reference chart. Large version (1500 x 800 pixels).

Two maps of Mars (north at top) prepared by Ralph Aeschliman, originally published in Sky & Telescope (2003 June), and reproduced here by kind permission of the artist. (Upper) classic nomenclature; (lower) modern nomenclature. Large version (1200 x 1200 pixels).

A general map of the planet (south at top) with telescopic nomenclature added, prepared by Damian Peach from his CCD images of 2005 October–November. Large version (2284 x 840 pixels).

Comparative Mars apparition charts for 2005 and 2007, compiled by Jan Adelaar from his images obtained 2005 October 6–November 9 and 2007 November 15–December 30. These maps appear in the second interim report of the 2007 opposition. (No larger version.)