Old Mars rovers can learn new tricks! NASA’s Curiosity marks 13-year milestone with new science capabilities
NASA’s Curiosity rover can now multitask
- NASA's Curiosity rover, which landed on Mars 13 years ago, has been equipped with significant new capabilities.
- These upgrades allow the rover to multitask, performing scientific activities while simultaneously conserving energy from its nuclear battery.
- Curiosity can now communicate with an orbiter, drive, move its robotic arm, and capture images concurrently.
- The rover can also autonomously decide to power down early if its daily tasks are completed, reducing the need for extensive recharging.
- These enhancements aim to maximize the lifespan of its power source, as Curiosity continues to explore Martian geological formations believed to be formed by ancient water.