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Sedimentological Investigations of the Martian Surface using the Mars 2001 Robotic Arm Camera and MECA Optical MicroscopeThe first microscopic sedimentological studies of the Martian surface will commence with the landing of the Mars Polar Lander (MPL) December 3, 1999. The Robotic Arm Camera (RAC) has a resolution of 25 um/p which will permit detailed micromorphological analysis of surface and subsurface materials. The Robotic Ann will be able to dig up to 50 cm below the surface. The walls of the trench will also be inspected by RAC to look for evidence of stratigraphic and / or sedimentological relationships. The 2001 Mars Lander will build upon and expand the sedimentological research begun by the RAC on MPL. This will be accomplished by: (1) Macroscopic (dm to cm): Descent Imager, Pancam, RAC; (2) Microscopic (mm to um RAC, MECA Optical Microscope (Figure 2), AFM This paper will focus on investigations that can be conducted by the RAC and MECA Optical Microscope.
Document ID
20000012731
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Rice, J. W., Jr.
(Arizona Univ. Tucson, AZ United States)
Smith, P. H.
(Arizona Univ. Tucson, AZ United States)
Marshall, J. R.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 19, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1999
Publication Information
Publication: Workshop on Mars 2001: Integrated Science in Preparation for Sample Return and Human Exploration
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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