The SCS consists of a pair of CCD cameras and optics, built by Space-X (related to CSEM, Switzerland), together with filter wheels and associated structure including a wiper blade to remove Martian dust, built by MSSL-UCL. One of the two cameras is shown above. The complete SCS system weighs just 350g.
Each camera has a set of 12 filters to enhance the science return. As well as several coloured filters, a close-up lens will provide the link between large scale SCS images and microscope images. A wide angle mirror enables images of the Martian surface to be taken soon after Beagle 2 lands and before robot arm deployment. Both SCS cameras are on Beagle 2's PAW (Position Adjustable Workbench).
The scientific objectives of the SCS include producing a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and colour panoramas of the landing site from stereo image pairs. Additionally mineralogy and petrology of rocks at the landing site will be studied and atmospheric water vapour and dust opacity measured .
The SCS also provided vital mission engineering data in the form of the digital elevation model (DEM) which allows the robot arm to safely navigate the other instruments into place against target rocks and soils. A wide angle mirror (WAM) is used collect the first panoramic view of the landing site immediately after landing and to observe deployment and retraction of the mole. White light torches allow images to be acquired at night, without contamination due to red light scattered from dust in the atmosphere.
23th December 2002
