Space/Science — HabitableZone

Space/Science » in reply to A path towards Victoria's bottom? (from APOD)

re: A path towards Victoria's bottom? (from APOD)

Ways to go

1. Find the easy way down to a view of the outcrop to the left and study it from a ways back. Then traverse back to the outcrop and study the talus along the way. Then traverse along the outcrop to see the material in situ. Oppy could do that by swinging wide right, stay on the dipping slabs while curving back towards the outcrop on the left. That way Oppy'd zig, then zag, across the slope, getting great images of the outcrop on the approach.

2. The reverse of # 1. Hold as close to the outcrop as possible, collect in-situ data on the way down section, then traverse the talus apron, and head out taking time to look back at the outcrop and put the data into perspective.

Given that this outcrop has been examined from the partial rim traverse, I think the second option is the better one. Especially given the time constraints. Our brave rovers survived a close call with the dust storms, every sol is precious. Carpe Sol!

But the middle route might be safest. Cruise through the talus pile, sample material that came from above, if something is seen up-hill in out-crop that is interesting, then try too reach it.

That's what'd being going through my brain, were I standing there. I'd head for that big talus block, maybe have lunch there, have a look around.

But that rock to the right looks like good surface for going down a steep slope.....

It's a difficult choice.

Log in or register to post.

The whole thread (3 posts)