On February 25, yet another landmark Mars mission operation was achieved. The ESA">European Space Agency's (ESA) Rosetta probe finally completed what was deemed to be a "key maneuver" in its 10-year mission to land on a distant comet. This "swing-by" is the second of four gravity-assisted moves before finally settling on its target in 2014.

And this momentuous event has got some really cool pictures to show for. Using the Rosetta's Optical Spectroscopic, and Infrared Remote Imaging System (OSIRIS), they were able to capture spectacular images of Mars in the so-called "pre-close-approach phase."

Back to the sling shot mission (cos the images are just here for your viewing pleasure, anyway), in order to successfully reach the distant comet, Rosetta must gain the perfect speed and reach the perfect trajectory, "accelerated and assisted by the four swing-bys which use the gravitational pull of planets as a boost."

2007 and 2009 will see the other two sling shot trips around Earth before Rosetta can finally reach its destination.

Images courtesy of ESA News.