Adirondack Rock on Mars
Is this a great
pyramid on Mars?
Actually, the pictured rock dubbed
Adirondack
has an irregular shape, is only about the size of a
football,
and has formed by natural processes.
Still, its relatively large size and
dust-free surface
made it the first destination for the
robotic Spirit rover currently roving
Mars.
Spirit, itself the size of a
golf cart, will now attempt to determine the
rock's composition and history by prodding it with its
sophisticated mechanical arm.
Spirit's arm, programmed remotely from Earth, has the
capability to bend, grind, and photograph the rock in minute detail.
Spirit's twin rover Opportunity is
scheduled to land on the other side of Mars this coming weekend.