Exploratour - Mars Exploration
Mars Pathfinder
The mission of Mars Pathfinder (MPF) was essentially to investigate the geology of Mars. Its principal objective was to perform analysis of the rocks and soil of Mars. Thus MPF consisted of 2 segments, a lander and a mobile Rover called "Sojourner" which could roam to various locations on the surface.
In its study of the Martian terrain near the landing site, Pathfinder found sand dunes, pebbles and cobbles, wind drifts, and other evidences of a changing surface.
There was great excitement when Mars Pathfinder landed on the surface of Mars on July 4, 1997. In exploring the geology of Mars, the Rover was highly successful, and handed scientists a wealth of new knowledge about erosion processes and surface geology of Mars.