Two views of the fourth planet

"The dark streaks [seen in this image from the middle of Gusev Crater] are places where wind has either scoured off the brighter Martian dust, or has covered it up with sand [Why don't I believe that? --Ed]. Note the interesting lobes of material evident along the right side of the image, just below the large crater. These may have formed because of the emplacement of water-rich sediments or possibly lava flows. It is hoped that the Spirit rover and all of its instruments will help us to understand the rich geologic history that is on display in this image."


"Although well to the northeast of the hematite-bearing unit in Meridiani Planum (the landing site of the Opportunity rover), this THEMIS visible image offers a stunning landscape, and clues regarding the possible history of water in this area [on Mars]."