APOD12

This is a 360-degree picture of Mars from the Spirit rover. Scientists originally predicted that the rover would only run for 90 days before dust covered the solar panels, but due to dust devils and strong winds on Mars, the solar panels are periodically cleaned. This picture was taken on the rover's 1000th Martian-day in operation. Due to the rover's unexpected lifespan extension, the rover must take refuge against the cold and dim Martian winter season. Scientists placed the rover on Low Ridge hill, where the solar panels are at an optimized angle for collecting sunlight. While waiting out the winter, the rover was able to take this panorama picture, with the colors altered to show detail.