Ground Survey

         This mosaic was acquired by the Mars Exploration Rover Spirit on Sol 051 (February 24, 2004).  This was taken near the end of a drive. It is a survey of the ground approximately 1.5m in front of the rover, before the rover completed its drive putting that terrain directly in front of rover, and thus reachable by instruments on the robotic arm for in-situ science measurements. This image is also paired with a MiniTES (Miniature Thermal Emission Spectrometer) measurement of the same area. MiniTES analyzes radiated heat (thermal emmisions) from rocks and soil to learn of their composition. Pancam's 753nm, 535nm, and 482nm 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
May 29, 2008