MAP THE MARTIAN SURFACE

1

Providing some context

The MRO uses the Context Camera to determine where to point HiRISE. SHARAD is used if underground polar ice caps are also factored in.

2

Capturing the spectrum

To capture the likeness of the surface, the MRO uses a spectrometer. CRISM lets the MRO map include mineralogy and composition data.

3

Global scale

Before HiRISE is put into action, MARCI begins taking wide-angle shots. It can take up to 84 images a day, creating a vast map of the Martian surface.

4

Capture and return

To capture high-resolution detail, NASA uses HiRISE. Pointed at a location based on data collected by CRISM and CTX, it beams photos back to NASA.