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The environs of viking 2 lander
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|December 11, 1976
Summary
Viking 2
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Martian Surface Studies
Background:
- Viking 2 landed in Utopia Planitia, Mars, approximately 6500 km from Viking 1.
- Initial observations revealed a rocky surface with fine-grained materials near the Viking 2 lander.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physical properties of the Martian surface at the Viking 2 landing site.
- To compare surface characteristics between the Viking 1 and Viking 2 landing sites.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the surface sampler, lander cameras, and engineering sensors.
- Analyzed data obtained through Martian sol 58 for Viking 2.
- Included a brief description of Viking 1 activities post-sol 36.
Main Results:
- Viking 2's landing site exhibited a more homogeneous surface compared to Viking 1.
- Identified more coarse-grained material, an extensive crust, and difficult-to-collect small rocks at the Viking 2 site.
- Observed more significant erosion from retro-engine exhaust gases at the Viking 2 site.
Conclusions:
- The Martian surface at Utopia Planitia (Viking 2) presents distinct physical properties compared to the Viking 1 landing site.
- Differences in surface composition and structure were noted, including variations in material grain size and crustal extent.
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