NASA names Martian features after Algerian national parks

NASA has honored three iconic Algerian national parks—Tassili n’Ajjer, Ghoufi Canyon, and Djurdjura—by naming Martian landscapes after them, Algerian physicist Noureddine Melikechi revealed to AFP. Melikechi, a member of NASA’s largest Mars probe mission, proposed the names as a tribute to his homeland and to emphasize Earth’s environmental preservation.

Tassili n’Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Sahara with ancient rock art, closely resembles Martian terrains. Ghoufi Canyon, with its cliffside dwellings, reflects resilience in harsh environments, while Djurdjura, a snowy mountain range, highlights the richness of natural habitats.

NASA selected the names during the Mars Perseverance rover’s exploration of uncharted terrain. The announcement sparked pride in Algeria, with Culture Minister Zouhir Ballalou calling it a “historic recognition.” Melikechi hopes this will boost tourism, especially in the Sahara region, as Algeria promotes its natural and cultural heritage.