Complete Map of Mars Water Ice Reveals Accessible Resources for Future Missions

Scientists have created the most detailed map ever of water ice on Mars, revealing accessible resources crucial for human exploration. ## The Findings The map shows extensive ice deposits just beneath the surface at many locations, some containing enough water to fill Lake Superior. ## Accessibility Several ice-rich sites are in regions suitable for landing and habitation, making them prime candidates for future human missions. ## Why Water Matters Water ice can provide drinking water, oxygen for breathing, and hydrogen for rocket fuel—making sustained human presence possible. ## Mission Planning Space agencies are using this data to plan landing sites for upcoming crewed missions to Mars.