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Spirit's Autonomous Driving Chart

This image shows the path the Mars Exploration Rover Spirit traveled during its 24-meter (78.7-foot) autonomous drive across the bumpy terrain at Gusev Crater, Mars, on the 39th day, or sol, of its mission. The colored data points are from the rover's hazard-avoidance camera and have been reconstructed to show the topography of the land. Red areas indicate extremely hazardous terrain, while green patches denote safe, smooth ground. At the end of its drive, Spirit decided it was safer to back up then go forward. The rover is now positioned directly in front of its target, a rock dubbed Stone Council.

A smaller version of this photo was included in the article:
Rovers Send Data for NASA Scientists and Students
- February 12, 2004

 

Contents copyright 2004 MarsLander.com -- Images courtesy NASA/JPL