 |
 |
+MSAAG
+MER +DMAS |
February 26, 2004 23:09
Micro-Spherules: Page 2
The Opportunity Rover is taking an opportunity of a life-time to investigate the bizzare and fascinating world of "El Capitan"...a four-inch high outcrop of bedrock on Meridiani Planum. Littered with spherules the size of BB's, the Microscopic Imager aboard the golf-cart sized robot is recording snapshots of what has proven to be very puzzling, yet intriguing details. The Martian sphere enigma doesn't stop with the mere presence of these incredibly interesting globes, but it goes deeper...into the realms of speculation and simple educated guesses as to what they could be, or probably the more important question, where did they come from?
1M130670306EFF0454P2953M2M1.HTML
Note: All images have been scaled down for viewing purposes. To see full resolution, please open image in new window.
1M130672510EFF0454P2933M2M1
(1)
A pear-shaped spherule surprised everyone. It's shape suggests a double core, with the upper evolution being older than the lower. It is also noted is the anchoring mechanism which supports the spherule to the rock face.
(2)
The broken spherule above illustrates, with great detail, the inner components of the mysterious orbs. Clearly shown is the core of the spherule, with layering on the outside edges. To the rear of the broken sphere lies a mixture of rock, sand, and a distinct lace pattern. What this pattern represents is unknown at this time.
Enlargement of Lace Pattern
1M130670306EFF0454P2953M2M1
(1)
The 'fuzzy' spherule above exhibits a different texture than it's counterparts on the rock face. It is possible this is an effect of dust collecting on the spherule, but it could be some other unknown phenomena currently not understood by science. Note the many 'filaments' around the spherule.
(2)
In many areas on the bedrock there are indicators that suggest the original location of spherules before they made their descent to the ground. Note in the lower right corner the presence of a star-shaped 'web' filament.
1M130673194EFF0454P2943M1M1.HTML
Note: All images have been scaled down for viewing purposes. To see full resolution, please open image in new window.
1M130671782EFF0454P2953M2M1
(1)
A spherule perched upon it's resting pod, awaiting delivery to the Martian surface.
(2)
This spherule half buried in the rock face, suggests a growth abnormality with the parent rock. Notice the rock brace which supports the lower left corner of the spherule.
Additional Pods
(3)
From image 1M130671782EFF0454P2953M2M1.JPG
(1)
From image 1M130673194EFF0454P2943M1M1.JPG
1M130673194EFF0454P2943M1M1
(2)
The above spherule shows evidence of the interaction between sphere and rock. The malformation of the rock to the left and right of the sphere indicate some type of connection between the two surfaces. The crevice on the left side of the spherule could be the result of the erosion process, or a cause yet unknown.
(3)
This embedded spherule may tell us more than meets the eye. The symmetrical dimples on the end of the orb may indicate the remnants of the eroding rock, or it may suggest a growth phase in which the spherule disconnects from the parent rock.
Enlargement of Embedded Spherule Showing Unusual Geological Processes
© Bryan Butcher, 2004
Context Images courtesy NASA/JPL