The Mission of the Mars Science Laboratory, Curiosity
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National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
Free, Tickets Required
4:00-5:00 pm Discovery Station
5:15-6:45 pm Lecture and Q&A
6:30-8:30 pm Observatory Open
The Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity landed in Gale crater on Mars in early August, 2012. Since that time the rover has returned an array of stunning data that is being used to characterize the landing site and start the process of evaluating whether Mars may have harbored habitable environments. Join us as we delve into the recent findings from Curiosity.
Smithsonian's Stars lectures are suitable for ages 13 and up.
The Smithsonian's Stars Lecture Series is made possible by a grant from NASA.
This artist's concept features NASA's Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity rover, a mobile robot for investigating Mars' past or present ability to sustain microbial life.
In this picture, the rover examines a rock on Mars with a set of tools at the end of the rover's arm, which extends about 7 feet (2 meters). Two instruments on the arm can study rocks up close. A drill can collect sample material from inside of rocks and a scoop can pick up samples of soil. The arm can sieve the samples and deliver fine powder to instruments inside the rover for thorough analysis.
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