The Analyzer of Space Plasmas and Energetic Atoms (ASPERA) studies how the solar wind strips away the Martian atmosphere. The SPICAM instrument (Spectroscopy for Investigation of Characteristics of the Atmosphere of Mars) focuses on the atmospheric profile, mapping ozone and water vapor distribution. Together, these instruments explain why Mars transitioned from a warm, wet world to the cold, arid desert we see today.
While the orbiter was the workhorse of the mission, public imagination was largely captured by its passenger: . Named after the ship that carried Charles Darwin, this small lander was designed to search for signs of life. It was a daring, shoe-string budget addition to the mission, championed by British scientist Colin Pillinger.
Mars Express - Updated
The Analyzer of Space Plasmas and Energetic Atoms (ASPERA) studies how the solar wind strips away the Martian atmosphere. The SPICAM instrument (Spectroscopy for Investigation of Characteristics of the Atmosphere of Mars) focuses on the atmospheric profile, mapping ozone and water vapor distribution. Together, these instruments explain why Mars transitioned from a warm, wet world to the cold, arid desert we see today.
While the orbiter was the workhorse of the mission, public imagination was largely captured by its passenger: . Named after the ship that carried Charles Darwin, this small lander was designed to search for signs of life. It was a daring, shoe-string budget addition to the mission, championed by British scientist Colin Pillinger. Mars Express