Perfect Landing
The Mars flying saucer made a safe return to the borough May 23 after a nearly two-month absence. “Aliens” Makayla Clutter, 5, Colin Clutter and Stephen Parker, both 13, welcomed the flying saucer, positioned at the corner of Grand Avenue and Pittsburgh Street. The borough icon hovered away from its home in late March on its way to a cleaning and fresh coat of paint.
John Watson, president of the Mars Historical Society, said the ship has been in place since the mid-1980s, and has drawn tourists from around the country to the borough. It is also a point of pride for residents. Officials said it was last painted in 2017, and was in desperate need of a makeover. PPG Paints provided the new paint, which should last longer and allow the spaceship to be the center of attention during Mars Exploration Celebration days from May 31 to June 2.