The Atacama Desert is known as the driest non-polar place on Earth, with some areas recording as little as 1 millimeter of rain per year. This extreme aridity is primarily due to its location between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountains, blocking moisture. The desert is a scientific hotspot, often used for astronomical research due to its clear skies and minimal light pollution. It also hosts unique geological features, including salt flats and unusual rock formations.