Gusev Crater
Description:
Gusev Crater is a 166 km diameter impact basin in Mars' southern hemisphere, site of the Spirit rover landing in 2004.
Formed 3.5 billion years ago, it was likely a lake bed, with inlet channels like Ma'adim Vallis bringing water. The floor has basaltic plains, hills, and volcanic features, explored for signs of past water.
How I Got My Name:
Named after Matvey Gusev, a Russian astronomer.
Interesting Fact:
Spirit rover discovered silica-rich soils indicating hot springs; operated for over 6 years, traversing 7.7 km, finding evidence of aqueous alteration in rocks like 'Comanche,' supporting past wet environments.
Location:
Centered at 14.5° S, 175.4° E, 166 km diameter.
