William Atkins
Tuesday, 16 September 2008 05:27
Science -
Space
Page 2 of 3
In all, the MAVEN spacecraft will investigate in more detail that ever before attempted the atmosphere, climate history, and potential habitability of the planet. It should also improve our understanding of the dynamic processes within the upper atmosphere and ionosphere of Mars.
MAVEN will also study the current rate of atmospheric loss, making key observations that the solar wind may contribute in the loss.
Doug McCuistion, director of the Mars Exploration Program (NASA Headquarters) stated,
“This mission will provide the first direct measurements ever taken to address key scientific questions about Mars' evolution.”
NASA states,
“Mars once had a denser atmosphere that supported the presence of liquid water on the surface. As part of a dramatic climate change, most of the Martian atmosphere was lost. MAVEN will make definitive scientific measurements of present-day atmospheric loss that will offer clues about the planet's history.”
McCuistion adds,
"The loss of Mars' atmosphere has been an ongoing mystery. MAVEN will help us solve it."
MAVEN is expected to begin orbiting Mars late in 2014, with a launch about one year earlier.
Many instruments aboard MAVEN will investigate the planet in much detail. Read page three for more information.
