· · · ·

How is Mars rover Opportunity still alive?

how-is-mars-rover-opportunity-still-alive

Today, we review one of the great ongoing mysteries in the history of Mars exploration. In January of 2004, the Mars rovers Spirit and Opportunity arrived at the red planet about three weeks apart.

Due to the extreme dustiness of the Martian environment, it was believed that the rovers would be hindered by dust accumulation on their solar panels and were only given anticipated lifespans of 90 days each.

Fast Forward more than eleven years to 2015. For reasons that no planetary scientist has successfully explained, the Rover Opportunity is still alive and transmitting data to scientists on Earth.

In this episode, we explain what this "anomaly" reveals about the electrical nature of dust raising events on Mars.

YouTube video

Errata: source for quote on screen from 3:48 to 4:01 is http://www.nasa.gov/centers/goddard/n…

Video courtesy of The Thunderbolts Project

Featured image: NASA

Share:

Commenting rules and guidelines

We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Stay on topic and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
  • Do not use abusive or hateful language.
  • Do not spam or promote unrelated products or services.
  • Do not post any personal information or content that is illegal, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.

One Comment

Leave a Reply to jamal Shrair Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *