Between the Valleys of the Ancients

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Caption:

Today's image features a massif southwest of Paestum Vallis and southeast of Timgad Vallis . Though it may look similar to a crater central peak , examination of the geological context reveals that it is part of a ridge of older terrain, extending just beyond the end of Timgad Vallis.

This image was acquired as part of the NAC ride-along imaging campaign. When data volume is available and MDIS is not acquiring images for its other campaigns, high-resolution NAC images are obtained of the surface. These images are designed not to interfere with other instrument observations but take full advantage of periods during the mission when extra data volume is available.

Date acquired: October 18, 2014
Image Mission Elapsed Time (MET): 55992310
Image ID: 7269935
Instrument: Narrow Angle Camera (NAC) of the Mercury Dual Imaging System (MDIS)
Center Latitude: 59.23°
Center Longitude: 122.8° E
Resolution: 28 meters/pixel
Scale: The image measures roughly 20 km (12.5 mi.) diagonally across.
Incidence Angle: 73.9°
Emission Angle: 4.1°
Phase Angle: 78.0°

Background Info:

The MESSENGER spacecraft is the first ever to orbit the planet Mercury, and the spacecraft's seven scientific instruments and radio science investigation are unraveling the history and evolution of the Solar System's innermost planet. During the first two years of orbital operations, MESSENGER acquired over 150,000 images and extensive other data sets. MESSENGER is capable of continuing orbital operations until early 2015.

For information regarding the use of images, see the MESSENGER image use policy .

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