American space agency NASA along with other space enthusiasts gathered this weekend in Mars, Pennsylvania, to wish Mars a Happy New Year.

The Martian New Year occurs almost every two Earth-years. On Friday and Saturday, NASA will sponsor exhibits and activities in the borough of Mars, about 20 miles north of Pittsburgh.

The agency through its move hopes to encourage young people to study science and technology fields that will help in NASA's goal of sending humans to Mars in the 2030s.

Mars on earth has a total population of about 1,700 and a sculpture of a flying saucer in the heart of town. Its festival includes a science fiction costume contest.

The first Allegheny SolarFest will run completely on solar power and explore western PA's options for renewable energy.

Mars expert Jim Green who is NASA's Director of Planetary Science will also be giving a talk as part of this weekend's events.

Borough officials have been planning to celebrate its first Martian New Year celebration on the eve of June 19 and June 20, which coincides with the planet's actual New Year.

Mayor Gregg Hartung said in a statement that the Mars Historical Society earlier decided to discontinue its traditional New Year's celebration because of disinterest and frequent inclement winter weather.

Mr. Hartung said, "Three parts of NASA coming together to bring things to Mars, Pennsylvania, to celebrate Mars' New Year. NASA has done great - way beyond what we expected".