Release Date:  02/16/04
Image File Name:  
xpe_2M130169304EFF0514P2943M2M1.jpg 
xpe_2M130169304EFF0514P2943M2M1.tif
Source File Name:  2M130169304EFF0514P2943M2M1.jpg
Summary Information:  Microscopic Image of moessbauer imprint left at wheel-track target "middle of road"
Name of Submitter: Nathalie Cabrol
Institution:
Theme/Team/Group:  soil
Sol of Observation: 43
Earth Date of Observation: 02/16/04
Title of Image:  The Mark of the Moessbauer
Caption:
Mark of the Moessbauer
This microscopic image was taken by the Mars Exploration Rover Spirit on sol 43.  It reveals an imprint left by the moessbauer spectrometer after placement at this location named "Middle of Road" that lies appropriately within a rover wheel track.  Not only was the moessbauer able to gain important spectral information about this site, but it aided in the placement of the microscopic imager.  On hard rocks, the microscopic imager uses its tiny metal sensor to determine proper placement for optimal focus.  The shadow of the sensor can be seen in the lower portion of this image.  However, on the soft martian soil, this guide would sink, prohibiting proper placement of the microscopic imager.  After the moessbauer's much larger, donut-shaped plate touches the surface, Spirit can correctly calculate where to position the microscopic imager.  
Scientists find this resulting microscopic image particularly interesting because of the compacted nature of the soil that was underneath the Moessbauer plate, and the the fractured appearance of the material disturbed within the hole.  Both of these observations indicate a material with a cohesive nature.  

Credit:  JPL/NASA/USGS

Email Address:  
Phone Number:  650-814-0146<br> USERNAME: shlieven