The image was pieced together using 817 snaps taken by the Mars Exploration Opportunity Explorer over four months. (CNN/NASA)

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Video: Next best thing to being on Mars?

Updated: Monday, 09 Jul 2012, 10:33 AM EDT
Published : Monday, 09 Jul 2012, 10:33 AM EDT

(CNN) - NASA's dubbed it the next best thing to being on the "red planet."

They're talking about this stunning picture of the planet Mars.

The image was pieced together using 817 snaps taken by the Mars Exploration Opportunity Explorer over four months.

NASA says the image is presented in false color to emphasize differences between materials in the scene.