A color image of Mars’ North Pole region taken by the medium-resolution camera

The China National Space Administration (CNSA) on March 4 published high-resolution images of Mars captured by China’s Tianwen-1 probe. A color image of Mars’ North Pole region was taken by a medium-resolution camera, which was developed by the Institute of Optics and Electronics, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Tianwen-1 entered the parking orbit, with its closest point to Mars at 280 km and the farthest point at 59,000 km. It takes Tianwen-1 about two Martian days to complete an orbit. The probe will run there for about three months, and the orbiter instruments will be turned on one after another to begin scientific exploration.

The medium-resolution camera is a key scientific apparatus onboard the orbiter. Its main scientific exploration mission is to capture images of the surface of Mars, map remote-sensing images of the whole globe of Mars, and survey the planet’s topography, so as to provide essential data for research on the topography and landforms of Mars and their changes.

Since 2016, the Institute of Optics and Electronics, Chinese Academy of Sciences has undertaken the task of developing a medium-resolution camera that is able to adapt to intense space radiation, alternations in extreme cold and heat, and the complex illumination environment of Mars. The research team of the institute conducted in-depth optical and mechanical integrated design, and developed the highly reliable, long life color imaging camera which is able to adapt to the Mars orbital environment and show the global topography of Mars with low chromatic aberration.

Adhering to the spirit of preciseness and meticulousness, the research team also worked out the disposal plans, ensuring that the medium-resolution camera can capture images of Mars, and, more importantly, do so in a clear and reliable way.

Source: Institute of Optics and Electronics, Chinese Academy of Sciences