The distance from the Sun to Mars varies greatly because Mars has an elliptical orbit.

Here's a breakdown:

* Average distance: 142 million miles (228 million kilometers)

* Closest approach (perihelion): 128 million miles (206 million kilometers)

* Furthest point (aphelion): 155 million miles (249 million kilometers)

So, depending on where Mars is in its orbit, the distance can fluctuate by millions of miles.