Initial Results from the Mini-TES Experiment in Gusev Crater from the Spirit Rover
Abstract
The Miniature Thermal Emission Spectrometer (Mini-TES) on Spirit has studied the mineralogy and thermophysical properties at Gusev crater. Undisturbed soil spectra show evidence for minor carbonates and bound water. Rocks are olivine-rich basalts with varying degrees of dust and other coatings. Dark-toned soils observed on disturbed surfaces may be derived from rocks and have derived mineralogy (+/-5 to 10%) of 45% pyroxene (20% Ca-rich pyroxene and 25% pigeonite), 40% sodic to intermediate plagioclase, and 15% olivine (forsterite 45% +/-5 to 10). Two spectrally distinct coatings are observed on rocks, a possible indicator of the interaction of water, rock, and airfall dust. Diurnal temperature data indicate particle sizes from 40 to 80 μm in hollows to ~0.5 to 3 mm in soils.
- Publication:
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Science
- Pub Date:
- August 2004
- DOI:
- 10.1126/science.1100564
- Bibcode:
- 2004Sci...305..837C
- Keywords:
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- PLANET SCI