State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

Mars

  • Space Glaciers: Carbon Dioxide Ice Forms Glaciers on Mars

    Space Glaciers: Carbon Dioxide Ice Forms Glaciers on Mars

    A modeling study recently found that the carbon dioxide ice deposits at the South Pole of Mars flow as glaciers do, highlighting the importance of understanding ice in outer space.

  • Can a New Type of Glacier on Mars Aid Future Astronauts?

    Can a New Type of Glacier on Mars Aid Future Astronauts?

    A recent publication identifies evidence of glacial activity and underground ice on Mars in an unusually flat and temperate area, which could serve as a future human landing site.

  • Fresh Evidence of Life on Mars?

    Fresh Evidence of Life on Mars?

    In a landscape shaped by wind and water, is it possible that microbial life was found on Mars in 1976? A new paper indicates life may be present, and a new mission to Mars may confirm the results.

Blue banner with kids and Earth photos. Text: "Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Open House, Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10am-4pm.

On Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 10am to 4pm, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Open House—our biggest, best science fun and discovery event of the year—will take place on our beautiful campus in Palisades, NY. Mark your calendar and join us for this free, family-friendly celebration of science! RSVP Today!

  • Space Glaciers: Carbon Dioxide Ice Forms Glaciers on Mars

    Space Glaciers: Carbon Dioxide Ice Forms Glaciers on Mars

    A modeling study recently found that the carbon dioxide ice deposits at the South Pole of Mars flow as glaciers do, highlighting the importance of understanding ice in outer space.

  • Can a New Type of Glacier on Mars Aid Future Astronauts?

    Can a New Type of Glacier on Mars Aid Future Astronauts?

    A recent publication identifies evidence of glacial activity and underground ice on Mars in an unusually flat and temperate area, which could serve as a future human landing site.

  • Fresh Evidence of Life on Mars?

    Fresh Evidence of Life on Mars?

    In a landscape shaped by wind and water, is it possible that microbial life was found on Mars in 1976? A new paper indicates life may be present, and a new mission to Mars may confirm the results.