Mars

After visiting the Moon, players can continue their progression within Ad Astra by visiting Mars. Doing so requires a Tier 2 Rocket, which can be made from Desh, which is only obtainable on the Moon. 

About Mars

Like the Moon, Mars can be explored with just a regular Space Suit that is supplied with an ample amount of Oxygen. The surface is mainly made up of Mars Sand, with large rocks made from Conglomerate, which can be polished and used as a decorative block.

Mars is cold, as shown by the large polar ice caps which can be found on the planet, made up of Snow. While Mars might seem peaceful, Martian Raptors can spawn during the night, which will attack players.

Mars Priorities

The main reason to visit and explore Mars is to collect Ostrum Ore. Below the Martian surface are huge caverns where this Ore can be found. However, be careful, as Martian Raptors also spawn here due to the darkness.

These caverns use a Nether-like terrain generation, making them quite dangerous to explore due to fall damage. Other ores can be found here, including Mars Iron, Mars Diamonds, and Mars Ice Shards.

It’s worth collecting large amounts of Ostrum, so lots of return trips to Mars aren’t necessary in the future. Ostrum is used in the creation of the Cryo Freezer and Oxygen Sensor. However, it can also be compressed, turning it into Ostrum Plates.

Ostrum Plates are incredibly important for Ad Astra progression. Firstly, they allow you to create the Netherite Space Suit, which is required to visit hot planets like Mercury and Venus. They’re also required for the Energizer, Ostrum Fluid Pipes, and to create the Tier 3 Rocket, allowing you to venture deeper into the Solar System.

Martian Raptors

Only one creature can be found on Mars, and it’s the Martian Raptor. These creatures spawn at night but can usually be found at all times underground. Their spawn rate is relatively high, meaning you will likely run into them quite a lot.

Martian Raptors will attack the player on sight, but they don’t have too much health and are easy to defeat. When killed, they drop Rotten Flesh. While not an excellent food source, it’s enough to keep you supplied in emergencies.

Mars Temples

Large structures can often be found spawning on Mars, which are Temples. These spawn often and are worth exploring. When entering a Temple, they appear empty, usually having some Soul Lanterns and Cauldrons.

However, inside the ceiling on either side of the Temple is an Ostrum Block, as well as a Chest. Inside the Chest, you’ll usually find items like Enchanted Books, Emeralds, Bones, Strings, Glow Berries and Ice.