What massive geographical feature did Opportunity climb toward during the later phase of its mission?
Answer
Endeavour Crater.
A defining characteristic of Opportunity's extended mission was its methodical, long-distance traverse toward the rim of Endeavour Crater. This feature was deemed highly valuable because its immense size suggested that exploring its rim would expose geological strata significantly older than those observed at Meridiani Planum. By reaching and analyzing the layers exposed on the crater walls, scientists hoped to 'read' older epochs of Martian history, much like examining different pages in a geological book, contrasting the older crust with the younger materials found at the initial landing site.
#Videos
How Opportunity Shocked NASA Scientists | Supercut - YouTube
Related Questions
What was the original planned mission duration for Spirit and Opportunity rovers?Why was Meridiani Planum chosen as the initial landing site for Opportunity?What early discovery, nicknamed "blueberries," indicated groundwater flow at Meridiani Planum?What geological feature suggested a quiet, low-energy water environment like a long-lived lake?Which instrument provided chemical analysis that pointed to minerals like jarosite?What terrestrial geological process are the sulfate-rich veins cutting through Martian rock analogous to?What massive geographical feature did Opportunity climb toward during the later phase of its mission?What was the scientific goal shifted to, thanks to Opportunity's extended operation beyond 90 sols?What natural event in June 2018 caused Opportunity to cease operation?Approximately how many miles did the Opportunity rover traverse during its entire operational lifespan?