Multispectral imaging of Mars.

The imaging systems of former Mars missions had only limited spectral capabilities and were limited in spectral range due to spectral sensitivity cut-offs of the Vidicon cameras used. Meanwhile a new sensor technology, charge coupled devices (CCD's), was developed which would allow imaging from the UV to the near-infrared region. Such measurements would give important information on chemical/mineralogical composition and weathering state of the Martian soil and about meteorological phenomena (clouds, dust, frost) in form of both visual impression and spectral information. It is therefore suggested that future Mars missions such as the ESA Kepler mission should include a multispectral imaging experiment as part of the payload.