as imaged by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter in December 2008 (click to enlarge.) Given the low atmospheric pressure and density on Mars the wind velocity is calculated to be about 40 to 50 mph (18 to 22 m/s) in order to suspend such large masses of fine particles. Additionally, since Mars is so dry, the dust remains suspended in the atmosphere far longer than on Earth.Image credit: NASA/JPL
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