Astronomy Picture of the Day . Pathfinder on Mars . ... Yesterday, July 4th, using its own array of fireworks, a parachute, and a cocoon of airbags, the Mars Pathfinder spacecraft successfully bounced and came to rest on the surface of Mars at 10:07 AM Pacific Daylight Time. ... Today, July 4th, at about 10:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), the Mars Pathfinder spacecraft will land on Mars. ... Mars Pathfinder is nearing the end of its 7 month journey. ... Asteroid 253 Mathilde's Large Craters . ...