Travel to Space in Mars, PA — Well, Kind Of

The borough’s flying saucer is an ode to its extraterrestrial name.
Saucer Mars Pennsylvania

PHOTO BY SEAN COLLIER

If it looked more official, it wouldn’t be nearly as cool.

A flying saucer can be found at the intersection of Pittsburgh Street and Grand Avenue in Mars; it’s an ode to the borough’s extraterrestrial name (even if the origins of the town’s moniker remain murky).

There is not, however, a plaque, historic marker or other information about the spaceship — it just sits there, in a small parklet that also contains the bell from the decommissioned U.S.S. Mars and a tall pole reading “May Peace Prevail on the Earth.” A group of local businessmen led by proud Mars residents Shorty Davis and Bill Swaney constructed the saucer, bit by bit, in the early 1990s; its construction and installation, while done in the spirit of civic pride, were decidedly unofficial endeavors.

In other words, the 3,000-pound vessel seems like it merely landed here one day.

The flying saucer, which is occasionally repainted in a variety of colors but usually bears a standard gray coat, is one of many space-themed details around town. A little green alien can be found in just about every shop window, and many nearby businesses keep the theme going — including the Mars Brew House, which can be found next door to the saucer and claims to offer the “finest coffee in the universe.”

Grab a cup of joe and have a seat on one of the region’s most fitting, if mysterious, landmarks.

Find It!
100 Pittsburgh St., Mars

Categories: Curiosities