The world's driest desert scientists use to simulate expeditions to Mars

By Rosie Jempson, US News Reporter

The world's driest desert scientists uses to simulate expeditions to Mars (Image: Getty)

Stretching from southern Peru to northern Chile, the Atacama Desert is a remarkable destination that draws tourists from around the world.

Located to the west of the Andes Mountains, this 1,600-kilometer stretch of arid terrain hugs the Pacific coastline, creating a unique and captivating landscape. 

The towering Andes Mountains block any incoming moisture from the east, while the Pacific Ocean to the west suppresses the formation of rain-bearing clouds. As a result, some areas of the Atacama may go without rain for anywhere between 20 to 100 years.

Despite its desert status, the Atacama's climate is surprisingly mild. Average temperatures range from 0°C to 30°C, and unlike many other deserts that experience scorching heat during the day, the Atacama remains relatively cool due to the influence of cold oceanic air currents.

This consistent, cooler temperature sets the stage for the desert’s stunning scenery—vibrant orange sands contrasted against an endless stretch of mountains, offering visitors an otherworldly landscape unlike any other on Earth.

The Atacama Desert attracts business and human activity (Image: Getty)

Beyond its natural beauty, the Atacama Desert serves as a valuable resource for scientific exploration.

Its harsh conditions make it an ideal training ground for researchers and space missions, with NASA using the region as a testing site for Mars rovers since 1997.

Much like Mars, the Atacama features rugged terrain, extensive salt flats, and towering volcanoes, including the highest active volcano on Earth.

This desert is also known for its crystal-clear skies, making it one of the best locations for astronomical observatories and stargazing.

The Atacama Desert is rich in minerals (Image: Getty)

Among its peaks, Ojos del Salado stands out as a true giant. This imposing grey-brown volcano rises to an impressive 22,615 feet above sea level, making it the second-highest peak in the Western Hemisphere, only surpassed by Argentina’s Aconcagua.

Ojos del Salado not only dominates the Atacama’s skyline but also holds the title of the highest active volcano on our planet, making up the desert’s extraordinary and diverse landscape.

The Atacama Desert is rich in minerals, which has caused conflict in the past. 

The War of the Pacific took place over 1879-1883 between Chile, Peru and Bolivia.