The material was published by the University of Arizona, responsible for operating Hirise. Through a 3D model generated with stereo images, it was possible to simulate the exact lighting of the day when the Viking 1 probe photographed the formation for the first time. The result surprised again.
The images revealed by NASA on a human face on Mars
The Cydonia region, located in a transition zone between high and low grounds, contains multiple plateaus that were eroded over millions of years. In one of them is this rock formation, whose shadow – when the Sun is low– It generates a form very similar to that of a human face. It is a clear example of mimetolith, a form of relief that It seems to have a recognizable figure.
The interesting thing about the new image is that, when recreating the conditions of 1976, the scientists managed to clearly see why the figure caught so much attention at the time. The perspective and contrast of lights and shadows produce an optical illusion so convincing that it seems real.
Beyond the scientific explanation, the images continue to generate interest and astonishment. Even with modern technology and detailed geological analysis, the face continues to capture the attention of those who see on Mars more than a rocky planet.
The new images of this human face
Hirise’s work not only confirmed that the phenomenon is natural, but also allows users to access an interactive 3D model of the land. This opens the possibility of “Relivir” the 1976 scene From multiple angles, and observe how the figure changes according to the position of the sun.
The illusion is only perceived with a very specific lighting, which reinforces the idea that it is not a sculpture or an artificial vestige. However, as it usually happens with everything related to Mars, Fascination does not need concrete evidence to stay alive.
In times where space exploration advances by leaps and bounds, discoveries like this continue to generate impact. And although science has given its verdict, for many it will continue to be “the Martian face.” Reality or illusion? Sometimes, the answer does not matter as much as the mystery.
