Astronomer Brad Smith says Mars’ Mount Sharp Not Really Called That

The World
The World

NASA scientists are preparing the robotic rover Curiosity to begin exploring the surface of Mars.

Earlier this week, the craft landed on the red planet, in Gale Crater near a peak some have called Mount Sharp.

Astronomer Brad Smith, of the International Astronomical Union, explains to anchor Lisa Mullins how geographical features on Mars are named.

Smith also talks about why “Mount Sharp”—near where NASA’s rover Curiosity landed – is not an official moniker.

The mountain at the center of Gale Crater is called “Aeolis Mons.”

Less than .05% of listeners will donate. Can we count on you?

Our coverage reaches millions each week, but only a small fraction of listeners contribute to sustain our program. We still need 224 more people to donate $100 or $10/monthly to unlock our $67,000 match. Will you help us get there today?