In the history of space exploration is preparing another breakthrough – new Rover, which will arrive at Mars in 2020, an unprecedented number of cameras. Impressive not only the quantity (23 pieces), but performance – if Curiosity navigational tools Navcams and Hazcams had a resolution of 1 megapixel, the same instruments Mars 2020 will get a matrix of 20 Megapixels. This gives the opportunity to make a panoramic shot, not to stitch the disparate images into one.
Camera Mastcam-Z is a three dimensional shooting, it has stereoscopic vision and a special module zoom 3:1, this will allow you to make travel notes and looking at the landscapes of Mars to choose where to go. This has become possible with the launch into orbit of the red planet the data-relay Mars Odyssey and the development of new communications systems.
Tool SuperCam Remote Micro-Imager camera-infrared camera that can shoot a picture in color. CacheCam will allow to study samples of rocks collected by the Rover. Lander Vision System uses machine learning to navigate the terrain. Camera SkyCam is watching the atmosphere of Mars, six more cameras will monitor the descent and landing of the Rover on the planet.
Increasing the number of cameras on Board the Rover is a direct result of the development of two branches of technology. First, the camera modules have become much smaller and more economically, than a few years ago. Second, a tenfold increased bandwidth of communication channels. In the development of the same repeater Mars Odyssey engineers have laid the figure of 10 the Office on Sol (Martian day), and in fact received more than 100 MBT. And this opens unbelievable perspectives in the study of Mars.
Mastcam-Z and the coin for mastabatory — NASA