NASA's Mars Odyssey orbiter captured a stunning panorama of Arsia Mons, a massive volcano on Mars. The image, taken before dawn on May 2, 2025, offers a unique perspective of the Red Planet.
The panorama shows Arsia Mons rising above a canopy of clouds, similar to what astronauts would see. This is the first time such an image of the volcano has been captured on the Martian horizon.
Launched in 2001, the Odyssey mission is the longest-running spacecraft orbiting another planet. The image is part of a series taken since 2023, providing insights into the Martian atmosphere.
The images help scientists study dust and water ice cloud layers, observing seasonal changes. This data is crucial for understanding Martian weather patterns, including dust storms, which is vital for future missions.
Arsia Mons, 12 miles (20 kilometers) high, is roughly twice as tall as Earth's largest volcano. The clouds form due to air expansion and cooling, especially during the aphelion period.
The Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) camera on Odyssey captured the image, viewing Mars in visible and infrared light. This helps identify subsurface water ice, a critical resource for future exploration.
This highlights the enduring value of the Odyssey mission. The data collected will aid in planning future missions and potentially support a human presence on Mars.