We're preparing to launch the Perseverance rover to Mars, but what's involved in getting the Mars 2020 rover mission ready to head to Mars, and how do we prepare for operations once we're there?
In this month's show, we'll talk with one of the researchers working on Mars 2020 to get a scientist's perspective on what it's like to develop a Mars rover mission. We'll then transition to hear about how NASA-JPL uses unique testing facilities on Earth for developing Mars rovers — testbeds for mechanical components, software, and even full-size test rovers that roll about our Mars Yard to try out new systems and approaches for landing and operating on Mars.
This webcast show will be conducted via video conference, with speakers joining remotely from home. Watch live via YouTube and Facebook and submit your questions via the chat.
Host:
Preston Dyches
Cohost:
Sarah Marcotte
Speakers:
Dr. Briony Horgan — Scientist, Mars 2020 mission and professor, Purdue University
Armen Toorian — System testbed lead for the Mars 2020 mission, NASA-JPL
Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the landing of Spirit and Opportunity, the Mars Exploration Rovers.
We will delve into the stories of these incredible robots, with a look at how the exploration of Mars and the understanding of ourselves has changed because of the twin rovers.
Speakers:
John Callas, former Mars Exploration Rovers project manager
Abigail Fraeman, former Mars Exploration Rovers deputy project scientist
Host:
Nikki Wyrick, office of communications and education, NASA JPL
