“GINGERBREAD” in 3D Stereo
- Details
- Category: Mars
- Written by Mars3D
- Hits: 4563
Curiosity Sol 751 MastCam
Original: https://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/msl-raw-images/msss/00751/mcam/0751MR0032280120403604E01_DXXX.jpg
Curiosity 751 is a treasure trove of anomalies! Our master view today covers receding cliffs, well-eroded. But what’s that under the far cliff, those squiggles and such?
Zooming in and adjusting the contrast, a remarkable formation of “gingerbread” (a term used for ornately-carved decorative elements on Victorian homes) jumps out of the shadows. Whether it’s naturally-formed or deliberately-carved, it stands uniquely alone as either a ventifact or an artifact. The intricate, lace-like carving seems counter-intuitive to the weight it must bear from the overhanging mass of stone. Also, note that it seems to have a box-like structure, an almost-cubical framework that runs at ninety-degree angles.
It is these latter characteristics that push the scale towards “artificial” while begging the question, “Why?”. Why was this made, if indeed it was deliberately-carved? What is it meant to express? Is this perhaps a protectively-enclosed patio that’s part of an underground dwelling? It would no doubt offer a great view of the valley!
***
Free-viewing in 3D is easy! See attached tutorial images.
Just can’t do it? Simply PM “Glasses” to David Gannett for a free, no-obligation pair of anaglyph glasses.