BBC NEWS | In Pictures | In pictures: Mars landing

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03:33 GMT, Monday, 26 May 2008 04:33 UK

In pictures: Mars landing

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One small step - images from the unmanned Phoenix space probe were sent back to Earth after its successful landing on Mars.

Image from Phoenix probe (Nasa)

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Nasa staff had to wait about two hours after the landing for the images which allowed engineers to check for signs of damage.

Image from Phoenix probe (Nasa)

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They also showed the rocky landscape of the northern "arctic" plain where the probe will carry out its work.

Image from Phoenix probe (Nasa)

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Scientists say patterns are similar to what can be found in Earth's permafrost regions.

Martian surface (Nasa)

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The surface stereo camera on Phoenix captured this picture of rocks on the ground near where the lander came to rest

Landing sequence system operator

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A signal confirming the Phoenix lander had reached the surface of Mars was received at 2353 GMT on 25 May.

Phoenix team celebrate

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The Phoenix team reacted with cheers and hugs, although project staff say there will be many more moments of drama.

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