Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, illustration. The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) spacecraft was launched by NASA in August 2005, and arrived at Mars i
Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, illustration. The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) spacecraft was launched by NASA in August 2005, and arrived at Mars in March 2006. Here, it is shown passing over and area of Mars known as Nilosyrtis Mensae. Since its arrival, the MRO spacecraft has used cameras, spectrometers and radar to study the planet's surface features and geology, including the rock layers (stratigraphy), and deposits of minerals and ice. It monitors the weather conditions and acts as a high-capacity telecommunications system to relay data back to Earth from other spacecraft and probes.
Size: 3400px × 2625px
Photo credit: © NASA/JPL/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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