A rover has recorded sounds from Mars.

The Mars Perseverance rover, upon its historic landing on the Red Planet on February 18, 2021, did not just capture breathtaking images and collect rock samples; it also recorded sounds from Mars, providing an unprecedented opportunity to hear the Martian environment.

Equipped with two microphones, the rover aimed to capture audio moments during its arrival, landing, operational activities, and even the natural sounds of Mars, such as wind and other ambient noises. These recordings offer a unique glimpse into the auditory landscape of the Red Planet.

Understanding these Mars sound recordings involves considering the significant differences in atmospheric conditions between Earth and Mars. The Martian atmosphere is much thinner, with only 1% of Earth's atmospheric density at the surface, and it has a composition distinct from Earth's. These differences affect how sound travels and is perceived on Mars.

Sounds of Mars

NASA · About Our Perseverance Mars Rover

While some sounds familiar to us, like human voices, would still be recognizable on Mars, they would be notably quieter and slightly delayed due to the thin atmosphere. The discrepancy in sound perception between Earth and Mars is less dramatic than, for instance, the difference in someone's voice before and after inhaling helium from a balloon.

Notably, certain high-pitched sounds, such as whistles, bells, or bird songs, would be almost inaudible on Mars due to the unique acoustic properties of its atmosphere.

NASA has created an interactive online experience allowing people to listen to these Mars sounds and compare them with Earth sounds. Exploring these audio recordings not only provides scientists with valuable data for research but also allows the public to immerse themselves in the auditory ambiance of the Red Planet, sparking curiosity and understanding about our neighboring world. These recordings mark a significant achievement, bridging the gap between Earth and Mars through the universal language of sound.