-
MIA014: Junkyard Artefact
MIA014: Junkyard Artefact
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.
​
​