2006-10-03 | MISSIONS, TECHNOLOGIES
NASA's New Mars Camera Gives Dramatic View of Planet

NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) arrived in orbit around Mars on March 10, 2006 and began taking test images with its high-resolution camera. The first image sent to Earth by the camera is detailed enough to see rocks and surface features on Mars that are as small as an armchair. MRO is now flying around Mars in its final, nearly circular orbit and will begin the primary science phase of its two-year mission in November. During its mission, MRO will return more data about the red planet than all previous Mars missions combined.

The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter will use its six science instruments to study Mars in unprecedented detail from low orbit, examining Martian features ranging from the top of the atmosphere to underground layering. Researchers will use the spacecraft to study the history and distribution of Martian water and to support future Mars missions by characterizing landing sites and providing a high-data-rate communications relay. Studying the environment of Mars in great detail will help scientists determine the potential for past or present life on the Red Planet.

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