Implementation Of The 1975 Mars Viking Lander Cameras

Robert C. Beal

doi:10.1117/12.953536

1 September 1972 Implementation Of The 1975 Mars Viking Lander Cameras

Robert C. Beal

Proceedings Volume 0028, Instrumentation in Astronomy I; (1972) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.953536
Event: Instrumentation in Astronomy, 1972, Tucson, United States

Abstract

The 1975 Mars Viking program represents this country's first effort to directly explore the surface of another planet. During the 90- day design life of the Viking Lander, a variety of scientific experiments will be conducted to examine the planet and search for signs of life ('ef. 1). Several aspects of the Martian surface and atmospheric features will be explored with a pair of facsimile cameras designed and built by Itek Corporation for Martin Marietta. These cameras are lightweight and compact instruments designed to provide stereoscopic views of the Martian surface in both color and black and white. They will visually characterize the landing site, and support biology, geology, and meteorology experiments. The Lander Camera System consists of a stationary mast with a rotating sensor head. The stationary mast contains all the electronic components necessary to support camera operation. The rotating head contains a scanning mirror, focusing optics, and a photosensor to convert the image into an electronic signal. The two cameras are shown mounted to a Lander in Fig. 1.

Citation Download Citation

Robert C. Beal "Implementation Of The 1975 Mars Viking Lander Cameras", Proc. SPIE 0028, Instrumentation in Astronomy I, (1 September 1972); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.953536

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