Adirondack Rock on Mars
Explanation:
Is this a great
pyramid on Mars?
Actually, the pictured rock dubbed
Adirondack
has an irregular shape, is only about the size of a
football,
and has formed by
natural processes.
Still, its relatively large size and
dust-free surface
made it the first destination for the
robotic Spirit rover currently roving
Mars.
Spirit, itself the size of a
golf cart, will now attempt to determine the
rock's composition and history by prodding it with its
sophisticated mechanical arm.
Spirit's arm, programmed remotely from Earth, has the
capability
to bend, grind, and photograph the rock in minute detail.
Spirit's twin rover Opportunity is
scheduled to land on the other side of Mars this coming weekend.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
(MTU) &
Jerry Bonnell
(USRA)
NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings,
and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris.
Specific
rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
NASA /
GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
