A model of a Martian sandstorm has been derived from presently available data. The erosional effects of such a storm on the Viking lander were determined by test, and modifications involving the application of silicone-based protective material were made to insure lander survivability over the planned 60-day mission. Material eroded by windblown sand is expected to provide a source of contaminant for the soil samples used in the organic analysis experiment. Results of analyses predicting the level of such contamination indicate that soil sample contaminant concentration will be below the acceptable maximum.


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    Title :

    Martian sandstorms and their effects on the 1975 Viking lander system


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1975-09-01


    Type of media :

    Miscellaneous


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English





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