IMAGE DETAILS

Mars Report Ref: MIA014

Report date: July-August 2017

Research Status: Open - Possible mechanical debris

Description: Junkyard Artefact
Approximate size:  5 cm

Mission: Spirit Rover
Location: Gusev Crater

Found by: Unknown

Image date: Sol 15 Jan 2004
Image credit: NASA/JPL/Cornell

Graphics/image editing: M. J. Craig

Image source: (Left)  https://mars.nasa.gov/mer/gallery/all/2/p/015/2P127699373EFF0313P2549R7M1.HTML

(Right) https://mars.nasa.gov/mer/gallery/all/2/p/015/2P127699373EFF0313P2549L7M1.HTML

OBSERVATIONS

This image taken only fifteen days after landing, is most likely to be a small part of the spacecraft airbag mechanism.

POTENTIAL FOR AN ARTIFICIAL OBJECT

Angular characteristics similar to shorn metal fragments or strapping.

COMMON EXPLANATION

Part of the landing airbag.

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