The majority of the surface of Mars falls into this classification. There is some argument as to whether certain regions should be classified as plains or dunes. However, for most of the general populace, if the sand is thick enough to clog their treads and block their filters, it's dunes; otherwise it's plains.The major threat offered by the plains of Mars are the great dust storms that sweep across them at random intervals. Central Trading has positioned numerous weather-tracking satellites in Molniya orbits over the powered area of Mars. The satellites provide miners and settlers alike with substantial warning for impending storms, and consequently it has been several months since the last storm related death was reported.