October Mars . ... Credit Copyright: Chris Cook Explanation: This October, Mars has become a bright, yellowish star in planet Earth's sky as it approaches oppositon , the period when Mars and Earth pass close as they orbit the Sun. How close is Mars? ... For example, this series of sharp Mars images follows the development of a dust storm as the planet rotates from right to left. ... NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings, and Disclaimers . NASA Official: Jay Norris. ...