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The scenario presented in table 3.6 suggests the great complexity of data processing and hypothesis generation involved in solving problems in a planetary investigation conducted by a fully-autonomous spacecraft. Table 3.6 shows a simulated report based on studies of the Martian oases following the Viking mission to the Red Planet in 1976 (Huguenin, 1978). Without delineating all logical functions required to arrive at the final suggested hypothesis, the series gives the reader a feel for the many steps involved in full-fledged scientific analysis of a new situation. It is presented in the format of a condensed message sent to Earth via statements which indicate what measurements were made and confirmed, and what reasoning was used to draw specific conclusions.

3C.1 References

Huguenin, R. L.; et al.: Mars: Infrared Spectral Reflectance and Compositional Implications. J. Geophysical Research, vol. 83, no. B11, Nov. 1978, pp. 5433-5441.