Mars rover reaches 'Home Plate'

2006

The Mars rover Spirit reached a rugged plateau dubbed "Home Plate," but scientists are still trying to decipher its geology. 

The six-wheeled Spirit reached the northern edge of the broad mesa last week about four months after climbing down from a Martian hill as tall as the Statue of Liberty. Scientists believe "Home Plate" -- which stands about 6 feet (1.80 meters) high -- holds important geologic clues to the Red Planet's past.

        

Scientists say the "Home Plate" plateau is layered and very different from other areas Spirit has studied.