On 30 September 2024, NASA’s Perseverance rover turned its Mastcam-Z digicam in direction of the Martian sky, capturing a outstanding view of Phobos, Mars’ small, irregularly formed moon, because it handed in entrance of the Solar in a partial eclipse. This occasion, noticed on what scientists check with as Sol 1285 of the mission, showcased the shadowy define of Phobos—a potato-shaped rock—highlighted towards the Solar’s vivid disk.
A Distinctive View of Mars’ Potato-Formed Moon
In contrast to Earth’s spherical moon, Phobos has a distinctly irregular kind, intently resembling an asteroid. Spanning about 17 by 14 by 11 miles, it follows a singular, elliptical orbit round Mars at a mere 3,700 miles from its floor. By comparability, Earth’s Moon is sort of 239,000 miles away, making Phobos appear extremely near Mars. Its proximity and speedy orbit enable it to circle Mars thrice every day, creating frequent however temporary eclipse alternatives for Martian observers.
Tracing the Origins of Phobos
The origin of Phobos stays a thriller in planetary science. Whereas its look hints at an asteroid, many researchers consider Mars’ gravity did not seize Phobos however reasonably could have shaped alongside the planet or within the aftermath of a colossal impression occasion. The almost good orbit that Phobos maintains round Mars is among the predominant causes scientists have leaned away from the asteroid seize concept, as captured our bodies typically exhibit irregular orbits.
Perseverance’s Continued Commentary of Martian Eclipses
This is not the primary time Perseverance has noticed Phobos’ transit. The rover has beforehand photographed related eclipses in April 2022 and February 2024. Different Mars rovers, similar to NASA’s Spirit and Alternative, captured photos of Phobos eclipses in 2004, and Curiosity recorded this occasion in 2019.
