Dear Colleagues:
As you may be aware, the landing sites for the 2003 Mars Exploration Rovers were recently selected by Dr. Ed Weiler at NASA Headquarters (see NASA press release at http://www.nasa.gov/home/HP_news_03137.html). Based on consideration of both safety and science potential, sites in Gusev crater and Meridiani Planum were chosen for MER-A (first launch) and MER-B (second launch), respectively. Additional analyses of the sites (e.g., expected winds, airbag performance) will continue over the upcoming months and the ability to retarget the rovers to alternate sites will be retained (for up to several months after launch) pending the outcome of these studies.
Many of you have contributed considerable time and effort to the site selection process and related activities. We believe that the fact that selected sites are entirely consistent with the consensus of the science community regarding the science potential of the sites is a direct reflection of the hard work you've put in.
The two selected landing sites possess the potential to enable a very exciting and scientifically rewarding mission.
Please accept our heartfelt thanks for all of your time and assistance in this important activity!
Regards,
John Grant and Matt Golombek