Mars Time Converter

A Python library and CLI tool for converting Earth UTC time to Martian time systems, supporting multiple Mars missions.

Overview

Mars Time Converter is an open-source Python library and command-line tool designed to convert Earth UTC time into Martian time references, including Local Mean Solar Time (LMST), Mars Sol Date (MSD), Coordinated Mars Time (MTC), and Equation of Time (EOT).

Developed in the context of the NASA InSight mission, the tool addresses a concrete operational need: synchronising scientific data timestamps with the Martian day cycle, which differs fundamentally from Earth’s 24-hour system. A Martian sol lasts approximately 24 hours and 39 minutes, making direct time comparison non-trivial.

The library’s flexible architecture supports multiple Mars missions through a mission-specific XML configuration file, making it straightforward to extend to future missions.

Features

  • UTC → LMST conversion (Local Mean Solar Time)
  • LMST → UTC reverse conversion
  • Computation of Mars Sol Date (MSD), Coordinated Mars Time (MTC), and Equation of Time (EOT)
  • Mission-specific configuration via XML files
  • Command-line interface (marsnow) for quick terminal use
  • Full documentation hosted on the OBSPM GitLab wiki

Technical Details

  • Language: Python (90%) / Shell (10%)
  • License: MIT
  • Package: installable via setup.py / pyproject.toml
  • Tests: dedicated test suite in tests/
  • Documentation: ReadTheDocs-compatible (.readthedocs.yml)