A new study suggests the iron oxide responsible for the red planet's distinctive hue is ferrihydrite, pointing to the bygone presence of water, an important ingredient for life

Results from a new study show that the water-rich iron mineral ferrihydrite may be the main pigment behind Mars’ reddish dust.

Thanks to new research techniques published today, scientists say that "our understanding of why Mars is red has been transformed."

A study suggests Mars takes its red hue from a type of mineral that forms in cool water, which could reveal insights about whether Mars was ever able to support life.

New research has revealed that Martian dust's red hue comes from reactions that occurred in wet — not dry — conditions, and it could have implications for the possibility of life on the planet.

Mars is widely known for its iconic rusty red color — many people even refer to it as just the "Red Planet" — but new research suggests the Martian shade isn't just lovely to look at. The chemistry behind Mars' rosy hue may actually hold important information about our cosmic neighbor.

Mars has been red for millions of years longer than previously thought, suggests new research. The study has "transformed" understanding of how the "r ed planet " developed its distinct hue, say American scientists.