Petrology and Geochemistry of Surface Materials
The Alpha-Proton
X-Ray Spectrometer (APXS) and the visible to near-infrared spectral filters on the IMP will determine the
dominant elements that make up the rocks and other surface materials of the landing site.
A better understanding of these materials will address questions concerning the
composition of the martian crust, as well as secondary weathering products (such as
different types of soils). These investigations will provide a calibration point for
orbital remote sensing observations such as Mars Global
Surveyor. The IMP will be able to obtain full multi-spectral panoramas of the surface
and underlying materials exposed by the rover and lander. since the APXS is mounted on the
rover, it will be able to characterize rocks and soils in the vicinity of the lander.