Mars, Earth, and the sun are part of the Milky Way galaxy. A galaxy is made of many solar systems. Each solar system has a star at the center. A force called gravity pulls planets and moons toward the star. Bigger objects have stronger gravity. They pull smaller objects, such as the planets, toward them.
Making Connections
Text-to-Self
Scientists study rocks on Mars to learn about the planet’s history. What is your favorite thing to learn about? How do you learn about it?
Text-to-Text
Have you read other books about planets? How are those planets similar to or different from Mars?
Text-to-World
Mars is very dusty and dry. Can you think of some places on Earth that are like this?
Teacher Resources
Select a resource below to download the PDF.