The Mars Stratigraphy Mission represents a groundbreaking initiative aiming to explore the stratigraphy of Mars in depth. Spearheaded by researchers C. J. Budney, S. L. Miller, and J. A. Cutts from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, this mission is designed to provide unparalleled insights into the geological history of the layered deposits within the Valles Marineris region on Mars.
This ambitious venture involves deploying a rover equipped with a unique suite of instruments to analyze and date materials encountered during its descent through 2 kilometers of Martian strata. The primary scientific objective is to unravel the mysteries surrounding the formation of layered deposits and to determine their geological origin—whether volcanic or sedimentary.
The mission's scientific requirements include the examination of cliffs or ridges with at least 2 kilometers of exposed layering, along with a meticulous analysis of mineralogy, chemistry, and age dating of core samples collected at various intervals down the stratigraphic column. Continuous determination of layer morphology and the provision of context along the stratigraphic column are essential aspects of the mission.
Operational necessities for the rover involve locating and descending cliffs, maneuvering over diverse slopes, and stopping at regular intervals for scientific measurements. Ground interactions play a crucial role, with images of the local scene aiding the science team in selecting locations for sample collection.
The proposed mission design outlines a launch in 2007 using a Delta 7925, reaching Mars in 2009 through a Type IV transfer. Upon arrival, a controlled descent and landing near Valles Marineris are planned. The rover, resembling the Athena rover but featuring an inflatable wheel mobility system, would embark on a traverse to the canyon clifftop, where it would anchor a tether for a daring descent of 2 kilometers or more.
Communication with Earth would be facilitated by a communications orbiter in low equatorial orbit. The flight system, comprising the cruise stage, entry/descent system, lander, and rover, integrates advanced technologies planned for 2004.
This Mars Stratigraphy Mission concept, conceived in August 1999 by the JPL Advanced Projects Design Team, holds significant promise for unraveling the geological mysteries of Mars, providing a compelling avenue for in-depth exploration and scientific discovery.
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