Suface Morphology and Geology at Meter Scale
The Imager For Mars Pathfinder (IMP) will reveal
martian geologic processes and surface-atmosphere interactions similar to what was
observed at the viking landing sites. Observations of the general landscape, surface
slopes and the distribution of rocks will be obtained by panoramic stereo images at
various times of the day. Any changes in the scene over the lifetime of the mission might
be attributed to the actions of frost, dust or sand deposition, erosion or other
surface-atmosphere interactions. A basic understanding of the surface and near-surface
soil properties will be obtained by the Rover and lander imaging of rover wheel tracks,
holes dug by the rover wheels, and any surface disruptions caused by airbag bounces or
retractions.