Potato in Space? NASA Photo of Martian Moon Phobos Sends Internet Wild

Forget the moon landing, it’s Phobos that’s got everyone talking! NASA’s latest photo of Mars’ largest moon, Phobos, has taken the internet by storm, with many comparing its oddly shaped form to a giant, cosmic potato.

What’s So Fascinating About Phobos?

Phobos is one of Mars’ two moons, and it’s a fascinating object in its own right. It’s only about 17 miles (27 kilometers) across, making it a tiny moon compared to Earth’s. It’s also incredibly close to Mars, orbiting the planet just 3,700 miles (6,000 kilometers) above the surface.

A Potato in the Sky?

The photo, taken by NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, shows Phobos in stunning detail. Its irregular shape, with its craters and ridges, has sparked a wave of online comparisons to a potato.

Why is Phobos So Oddly Shaped?

Phobos’ unusual shape is likely due to its formation. Scientists believe it was formed from debris that was ejected from Mars after a giant impact. This debris eventually coalesced into the moon we see today.

Phobos’ Future: Crash Course with Mars

Phobos is slowly spiraling inwards towards Mars, and it’s expected to crash into the planet in a few million years. Scientists are eager to study the moon before that happens, as it could hold clues to the early history of the Martian system.

The Internet Goes Wild

The photo of Phobos has sparked a flurry of memes and jokes online, with people comparing it to potatoes, asteroids, and even a giant, space-faring rock.

Want to see more space potatoes?

NASA’s website is a treasure trove of stunning images from Mars and beyond. You can also follow NASA on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest space exploration news and discoveries.

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