Saddleback

         This mosaic was acquired by the Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity on Sol 2793 (December 2, 2011).  This Saddleback area of northern Cape York is of interest not only for its geologic features but because it has favorable northerly slopes to optimize Opportunity's solar energy as winter approaches in the southern hemisphere of Mars. After this mosaic was acquired, Opportunity backed up the slope to park at approximately 16 degrees northerly tilt and do some IDD (Instrument Deployment Device) work on Saddleback rock and soil targets. Pancam's 753nm, 535nm, and 432nm filters were used in making this mosaic.  Two versions are provided at full resolution: an approximate true color rendering, and a false color rendering which enhances the subtle color differences in the scene.

Jim Bell
Pancam Instrument Lead
December 15, 2011