Aug 8 1997
From The Space Library
After exceeding even the most optimistic predictions made during its primary mission, the Mars Pathfinder spacecraft concluded its initial research maneuvers and began extended operations. The initial mission had returned to Earth 1.2 gigabits of data and more than 9,000 images of the Martian landscape. Project Manager of the Mars Pathfinder Mission Brian Muirhead said that the mission had not only had gathered an impressive amount of data, but also validated NASA's new approach to exploring space. "This mission demonstrated a reliable and low-cost system for placing science payloads on the surface of Mars," he stated. "We've validated NASA's commitment to low-cost planetary exploration." After completing the planned 30-day mission and traveling 171 feet (52 meters) across Mars's landscape, the rover Sojourner remained in excellent condition. Operators gave Sojourner a two-day rest period to recharge its battery, before it began an extended exploration of the planet.
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