MarsWatch 1996-1997

Images of Mars from Astronomers Around the World

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Linking Amateur and Professional Mars Observing Communities

for Observational Support of the Mars Pathfinder Mission

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The above images were drawn by ALPO Mars recorder Carlos Hernandez on 6 January 1997. Carlos writes: " I have attached a recent observation of Mars which shows Mare Acidalium prominently on the CM (with a bright (7/10) streak over it's following half) as well as the Chryse/Xanthe region partially obscured by a thin, bright (8/10) veil north of a dark (3/10) Mare Erythraeum and Aurorae Sinus. This region includes Ares Vallis, the future landing site for the Pathfinder mission, or specifically the rover (Sojourner). This area on Mars bears close scrutiny during the upcoming months prior to the arrival of the spacecraft (July 4, 1997). Nilokeras is visibly dusky (4/10) extending from the Sf. (South-following) portion of Niliacus Lacus and appears to connect with an also dusky (4/10) Lunae Lacus. Ganges appears dull (5/10) as if partially obscured by a bright (7-8/10) veil extending over it from the Ophir-Candor region. A very bright (9/10) veil appears to project over the Tharsis region as well as the morning (following) limb. Solis Lacus is partially visible as a dark to dusky (3-4/10) oval towards the southern limb, which appears very bright (9/10) as well." [The image on the right has been colorized by Carlos based on colors derived from his own experience at the eyepiece as well as recent HST imaging.]