We talked about our Journey to Mars, then we talked about the official launch to Mars, but now what? What comes next?
Since we have a bit of time before we land on Mars on February 18, 2021 20:00 UTC, here is some key information on the mission itself, parachutes aside.
“Perseverance is now on its way to seek signs of ancient life and collect rock and soil samples for possible return to Earth. Along with the rover is the Ingenuity helicopter, a technology demonstration that will be the first powered flight on Mars. The rover will arrive on the Red Planet on Feb. 18, 2021.
The mission addresses high-priority science goals for Mars exploration, including key astrobiology questions concerning the potential for life on Mars. It not only seeks signs of habitable conditions on Mars in the ancient past, but also will search for signs of past microbial life.” (From Mars.Nasa.gov)
You can keep up with the mission status continuously on NASA’s page here.
The Airborne Systems team is so proud of the history being made here, and ecstatic to play a role in such a momentous feat.
Safe travels, Perseverance!
