Scientists to test equipment in Cyprus before sending them to Mars

Experts have discussed a research project to test space equipment in Cyprus before sending them to Mars to measure the age of its rocks.

The government’s Geological Survey Department and CSEO have discussed the objectives of the international space programme, the geological needs and the most suitable locations. Cyprus’ Troodos mountain range has geological similarities with Mars, officials said

Panetologists and geologists arrived in Cyprus earlier this month to test out the equipment in the Troodos mountains, which officials say has geological similarities with the red planet.

The project is funded by the European Commission and on Friday a first meeting involving the Cyprus Space Exploration Organisation (CSEO) and the Geological Surveys Department got underway.