FIDO prepares scientists for Mars rover

The use of Field Integrated Design Operations (FIDO) test bed which allowed the science team to formulate hypotheses about the geologic environment and use the rover to test them. The scientific instruments on the test rover are similar to the Athena science payload that will be carried by the Mars Exploration Rovers. Rock and soils are analyzed with a set of five instruments carried on each rover. Selection criteria includes clear evidence of ancient water, as indicated either by minerals that form under wet conditions, or landscapes apparently shaped by water.