Fig. 1
From: Science operation plan of Phobos and Deimos from the MMX spacecraft
Current scientific operation plan for Phobos (Phase 1 to 4) and Deimos (phase 5). Two times touch down on near side and far side of the moon are planned in phase 3, but the time and locations are tentative. Mars observation will take place mainly in Phase 4 and 5 together with Phobos and Deimos observation. Top panel indicates solar latitude (NS0, S25, and N25 mean β = 0, − 25, and + 25°, respectively) and eclipse duration in minutes by Mars (orange) and Phobos (blue). For eclipse duration estimates, a QSO-L orbit is assumed. In between the top and bottom panel, type of QSOs (H, M, LA, LB, LC, and 3D-M) that will be performed in corresponding time period are described for the first 1.5 years (QSO allocation for the last 1.5 years are not yet determined). The allocated period of 3D-M is tentative. Bottom panel indicates solar conjunction period (Grey) and the distance between Phobos and Earth (purple line in au) and Sun-Earth-Mars angle (green in deg.). CO check out, H QSO-H, M QSO-M, LA QSO-LA, LB QSO-LB, LC QSO-LC, 3D-M 3D-QSO, LSS landing site selection, TD touch down, Sci Obs scientific observation for Phobos, DM flyby Deimos flyby observations