NASA’s 2001 Mars Odyssey orbiter is set to achieve a remarkable milestone on June 30: completing its 100,000th orbit around the Red Planet since its launch 23 years ago. Throughout its mission, Odyssey has been instrumental in mapping Mars’ minerals and ice, scouting potential landing sites for future missions, and relaying crucial data from NASA’s rovers and landers back to Earth.
Recently, the orbiter’s Thermal Emission Imaging System, designed and operated by Arizona State University, captured a breathtaking new image of Olympus Mons, the tallest volcano in the solar system. This image is part of Odyssey’s ongoing efforts to provide expansive views of Mars’ horizon, akin to the perspective astronauts enjoy aboard the International Space Station, offering insights into Martian cloud formations and airborne dust dynamics.
Dr. Jeffrey Plaut, project scientist for Odyssey at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, emphasized the scientific significance of these horizon images, noting their unique ability to provide comprehensive data on Mars’ atmospheric phenomena.
The recent image of Olympus Mons, taken on March 11, showcases the volcano’s immense scale, with its base spanning 373 miles (600 kilometers) and towering to a height of 17 miles (27 kilometers). This perspective is typically unavailable from standard orbital views, making it a valuable addition to Martian research.
To achieve these horizon-wide views, Odyssey relies on precise maneuvering with onboard thrusters, carefully adjusting THEMIS’ orientation to capture scenes beyond the Martian surface, including its tiny moons, Phobos and Deimos.
The concept of horizon imaging was first conceived during NASA’s Phoenix and Curiosity missions, highlighting Odyssey’s adaptability and enduring role in supporting Mars missions by relaying critical data during landing operations.
Steve Sanders, spacecraft engineer at Lockheed Martin Space, explained the technical intricacies involved in capturing these unique images and the careful planning required to optimize THEMIS’ view of Mars’ horizon during each orbit. Lockheed Martin, the builder of Odyssey, continues to play a pivotal role in the orbiter’s operational success alongside JPL.
Maintaining Odyssey’s longevity in Mars orbit involves managing variables like fuel usage, solar power availability, and temperature fluctuations. These challenges are meticulously monitored and managed to ensure the spacecraft’s instruments operate efficiently throughout its extended mission duration.
Joseph Hunt, project manager for Odyssey at JPL, highlighted the innovative engineering practices and meticulous planning that have enabled Odyssey to become the longest-active mission orbiting a planet beyond Earth. Looking ahead, the team anticipates further scientific discoveries and insights as Odyssey continues its mission around Mars.
As Odyssey celebrates its 100,000th orbit milestone, its contributions to our understanding of Mars’ geology, climate, and potential for past life continue to grow, underscoring the enduring legacy of NASA’s pioneering missions in planetary exploration.
