MARS File Extension
Adobe MARS Format
- File Type mars
- Developer Adobe Systems
- Popularity
- Application Adobe Acrobat Reader DC
- Category Document Files
- Format XML
What is a MARS file?
Files with the MARS extension are specifically tied to Adobe MARS Format, a Document Files type, and there are 969 files in this category.
The Adobe MARS Format (MARS) was developed by Adobe, which created file format and 81 programs to work with them.
MARS file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS. To open a MARS file, you can choose from 2 programs such as Adobe Acrobat Reader DC and Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.
Programs that support MARS files
How to open a MARS file?
If you cannot open a MARS file, it is most often due to missing software. Select a program from the list according to your operating system. Then go to the official website of the program developer, download it, and install it on your device.
Thanks to their popularity, Adobe Acrobat Reader DC and Adobe Acrobat Pro DC are often the go-to programs for managing MARS files. If you need the newest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, just access the Adobe website. From there you can download the installer compatible with all systems.
Once Adobe Acrobat Reader DC is installed, the OS should configure it as the default tool for opening MARS files.
Make Adobe Acrobat Reader DC the default MARS viewer
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired MARS file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- Towards the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, which is already set to the default option, "Recommended Programs";
- In this menu, select "All Programs" and search for Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default option.
Change a default app in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your MARS file, then select the "Open with" option and choose "Choose another app" from the menu that appears;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose Adobe Acrobat Reader DC as the application to associate with your MARS file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Finding answers to MARS file problems
If MARS files are giving you trouble, small modifications to your software can help. Check out the troubleshooting tips below to fix these issues.
What can lead to sudden Adobe Acrobat Reader DC crashes?
Insufficient updates for Adobe products can cause Adobe Acrobat Reader DC to crash. Be sure to regularly install the latest software updates.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What is the recommended approach to repair a damaged MARS file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged MARS file, and in the menu, click "Repair" to start the repair operation. Wait for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically restore the damaged document files.
What are the ways to check if my MARS file is damaged?
Characteristics of corrupted MARS document files can include:
- The file encounters problems during the opening process or shows error indications;
- Editing the archive in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is hampered by poor overall performance;
- The file causes Adobe Acrobat Reader DC or other software to hang or crash during various operations;
- An unexplained increase in the size of the MARS file;
- Actions performed on the file result in the appearance of error notifications;
How to edit a MARS file?
To modify MARS files, you need to install special software that makes it possible to open and edit document files. Online MARS editors are more restricted compared to software designed for Adobe MARS Format.
Best MARS editors 2026
According to these factors, we have compiled a list of available MARS editors.
| MARS Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Acrobat Pro DC | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.4 out of 5 (35 reviews) |