Planetary Society logo
  • “Exploration is in our nature.” - Carl Sagan

Emily Lakdawalla • Oct 18, 2007

Wheel tracks

The Mars Exploration Rovers have left wheel tracks all over their landing sites, but for some reason this pair of wheel tracks, left in the sand ripple on the rim of Victoria crater and now viewed from below, tickled my fancy. Thanks to James Canvin for the lovely panorama. Rover panoramas -- especially Opportunity's -- now have a softened, atmospheric quality because of the dust that has been deposited on their camera windows. It's kind of pretty but I'll bet it's driving the scientists bonkers.

Opportunity looks upward to 'Paolo's Plunge'
Opportunity looks upward to 'Paolo's Plunge' On sol 1299, Opportunity looked backward up the slope of "Paolo's Plunge" to the sand ripple that marks the rim of Victoria crater. Opportunity's entry into the crater dug two tracks into the sand ripple.Image: NASA / JPL-Caltech / Cornell / James Canvin

Let’s Go Beyond The Horizon

Every success in space exploration is the result of the community of space enthusiasts, like you, who believe it is important. You can help usher in the next great era of space exploration with your gift today.

Donate Today