NASA Rover Transmits First Microscopic Images of Mars Surface - 2004-01-17

NASA's rover transmitted the first microscopic images of the surface of Mars just one day after scientists at the ground station moved the rover to traverse the soil of the red planet for the first time. Mark Adler, the project leader, stated that officials at the California JPL moved the robotic arm of 'Spirit' forward and took pictures of the Martian surface with the arm's microscopic camera. Adler added that 'these are the first microscopic images taken from the surface of another planet.' The black and white images have astonished scientists, as it appears that the particles of Martian soil are clumped together like 'mud,' but without any liquid binding them. For this reason, scientists have dubbed the Martian soil a 'magical carpet.' Ken Herkenhoff, a geologist, noted that the camera captured details as small as a grain of sand: 'This is the highest resolution we have ever seen regarding Mars and it is truly exciting. It is very novel for us, and for this reason, we do not yet know exactly what it is. However, my personal opinion is that it is a mixture of soil particles on the surface of Mars that may have cement-like stickiness.' Scientists will conduct detailed and thorough analyses on all samples of Martian soil. Their goal is to find signs of water and, consequently, indications of some form of life. Researchers want to understand the potential difficulties that Spirit's six wheels may face as it begins to move away from the lander. In a few days, Spirit will distance itself from the mother ship and will undertake the task of navigating further distances. The twin rover, named 'Opportunity,' is set to land on the other side of Mars on January 25. Although the landing site for Opportunity is different from Spirit's landing location, similar tests will be conducted on rocks and soil there if the landing and contact are successful.