The eXoplanetary Research Institute (XRI)

Surprising Geologic Landmarks

"When you're landing on an alien planet, you never can be quite sure what you're going to find." Dr. Robert Turing, chief liason for the Extrasolar Project at the eXoplanetary Research Institute (XRI) lights up whenever he talks about recent discoveries on Epsilon Eridani e. "Every photo reveals something new, and in this case, we've stumbled on some remarkable geometric formations that help give some insights into the planet's geology."

Specifically, Turing is referring to two distinctive formations that he has dubbed "The Fingers" and "Arc de Triomphe", both of which are visible from the same position on the western coast of Artocos island.

You can see both formations in the 360-degree panorama shown here. Be sure to click the image for the full-resolution version.

Many of the mysteries of Epsilon Eridini e have been revealed by volunteers who are driving rovers for the Extrasolar Project. But in this case, Turing took the photograph with his own rover.

"The fragile appearance of these structures reveals a great deal about the resilience of the stone intrusions that form the dramatic dikes on Artocos island," Turing explained. He says that he'll likely stay in the region for several days so that he can continue to analyze the unusual geologic formations.

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