An "Elevated" Look at the Columbia Hills  

This is a Mars Orbiter Camera image (E0300012) of the terrain informally called the "Columbia Hills," draped over a digital elevation model that was derived from two Mars Orbiter Camera images (E0300012 and R0200357).

This unique view is helpful to scientists and rover planners as they plan Spirit's journey to the base of the Columbia Hills and beyond.  As of sol 135, Spirit sits approximately 680 meters (.4 miles) away from its first target at the western base of the hills, a spot informally called "West Spur."  Rover planners estimate that Spirit will reach West Spur by sol 146, or June 1, 2004.  Spirit will most likely remain here for about a week to study the outcrops and rocks associated with this location.  

From here, Spirit will continue her journey and head approximately 620 meters (.38 miles) to a higher elevation location informally called "Lookout Point."  Spirit should reach Lookout Point around sol 165, or June 20, 2004.  On the way, the rover will pass by and study ripple-shaped wind deposits that may reveal more information about wind processes on Mars.   

Lookout Point will provide a great vantage point for scientists to remotely study the inner basin area of the Colombia Hills.  This basin contains a broad range of interesting geological targets including the informally named "Home Plate," and other possible layered outcrops.  These features could be evidence that the hills contain water-lain sedimentary rock.  

Once at Lookout Point, Spirit will acquire 360-degree panoramic images of the entire area to help define the rover's next steps.  Spirit will eventually drive down into the basin to get an up-close look at the interesting features found here.  

Credit:  NASA/JPL/USGS
Image created by Larry Soderblom, 5/20/04
Caption provided by Larry Soderblom and Joy Crisp