New Mercury Images Show The Planet In Stunning Colour

New Mercury Images Show The Planet In Stunning Colour

Since 2011, NASA's Messenger spacecraft has been orbiting the planet, analysing every inch of its surface.

Well after four years of data collection using the Mercury Atmosphere and Surface Composition Spectrometer (MASCS), the team have finally compiled these stunning images.

Now as you might have guessed, these images aren't what we would see, instead it's a massive compilation of all the other wavelengths.

By looking at the non-visible spectrum scientists are able to determine the composition of Mercury. This data allowed them to discover the true composition of the ice caps as well as determine the ages of the craters that pocket the planet.

Sadly this is one of the last tasks that Messenger will carry out. The humble spacecraft is finally reaching the end of its mission. At some point tomorrow Messenger will collide with Mercury as its fuel has finally run out.

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