Photos: Dusty Mars rover finds water evidence, seeks shelter

In a self-portrait, the Mars rover Spirit shows that it is covered in dust as it seeks shelter for a very long winter rest. Plus, scientists see evidence of ancient hot springs or a fumarole from earlier rover findings.

Severe Martian dust storms hit the rovers in Earth's June. Spirit's power has been severely drained by the amount of dust covering its instruments and solar panels. The other Mars rover, Opportunity, which lies near the equator, is in much better shape, having been cleaned by wind gusts.

The Mars Exploration Rover Spirit is covered with dust in this image from photos taken by its panoramic camera from Sol 1,355 through Sol 1,358 (the number of Martian days Spirit has been on Mars). This verticle view distorts the ground and antennas. The camera mast is located beneath the 8-pointed star shape.