The laser track runs from left to right approximately in a line along the major axis of the red ellipse drawn on the image. Alternatively, the 'staircase' profile may be the signature of a series of small ridges. The spatial structure and origin of the features producing the staircase will be revealed as the laser rangefinder accumulates elevation measurements during its one-year mapping mission of Eros. The range was about 290 kilometers to the surface of Eros, over 5 times the designed ranging distance. Data from the NLR obtained during the NEAR mapping mission will be used to make a precise topographic model of Eros and to study the asteroid's shape, internal structure and dynamics.
Blue areas have weaker absorption bands, yellow and red areas have stronger bands.
The 2000 nm band is observed in reflected sunlight when the mineral pyroxene is present. Analysis of maps such as this combined with the results from the other instruments on-board NEAR over the coming year will help us understand the composition and history of Eros. Data Derived from NIS Low Phase Flyby sequences,Feb. The instrument measures the amount of sunlight reflected from the asteroid's surface over a wavelength range of 800-2400 nm, beyond the sensitivity of the human eye. Absorption bands due to the rock-forming minerals olivine and pyroxene are seen in the 1000 and 2000 nm regions, revealing information about Eros' composition.