The 2 megapixel sensors of the cameras Curiosity Mars rover do not match those of our smartphones. Why is that?

A number of factors led to the use of 2MP sensors in the main imaging cameras used on NASA's Mars rover, Curiosity, says the project manager responsible for their development.

The slow data rates available for broadcasting images back to Earth and the team's familiarity with that family of sensors played a part, says Malin Space Science Systems' Mike Ravine, but the biggest factor was the specifications being fixed as far back as 2004.

1) This color image from NASA's Curiosity rover shows part of the north wall of Gale Crater,

2) Panorama of Gale crater

3) shows the heat shield dropping away, just before the final descent begins

4) The rover's power supply is visible

5) This color image from NASA's Curiosity rover shows an area excavated by the blast of the Mars Science Laboratory's descent stage rocket engines.

Mars Rover Seen from Space in NASA 'Crime Scene Photo' by Mars Reconassance Orbiter

Landing Curiosity captured by Mars Reconassance Orbiter

The 34mm (115mm equiv.) Mastcam from the Curiosity rover - developed by Mike Ravine and his team at Malin Space Science Systems