Science instruments are state-of-the-art tools for acquiring information about Martian geology, atmosphere, environmental conditions, and potential biosignatures.
The Thermal Emission Imaging System, called THEMIS, views the visible and infrared reflections from the Martian surface to make a map showing the location of different mineral concentrations and their relationship to various landforms.
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The Gamma Ray Spectrometer, called GRS, has mapped the amounts and types of chemical elements at or near the Martian surface by measuring the way gamma rays from space change when they interact with different surface materials.
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The Mars Radiation Environment Experiment, called MARIE, took the first measurements of the space radiation that would be hazardous to the crews of interplanetary missions, including missions to Mars.
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