“That is exactly what you think it is: Phoenix descending to the Martian surface underneath its parachute. This incredible shot was taken by the HiRISE camera on board the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. You can easily see the ‘chute, the lander (still in its shell) and even the tether lines!”
Go see the Best. Image. Ever.
It’s the idea that such an image is possible, not the picture itself that is so amazing.