Scientists plot routes for Mars rover
2012-08-15 07:26
Video
2012-08-07 13:15
This YouTube video shows the descent of the Mars Science Laboratory (Curiosity) on the red planet.WATCH
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Los Angeles - Scientists are evaluating driving routes the rover Curiosity may take on its way to a Martian mountain.
The Nasa rover landed in Gale Crater near the Martian equator a week ago after an eight-month space flight. Its ultimate destination is Mount Sharp, which rises from the centre of the crater.
Since landing, the car-size rover has been undergoing an extensive check of its systems and instruments. Officials said on Tuesday that Curiosity has successfully completed an upgrade to its computers.
Engineers plan to have Curiosity move its wheels and take a short test drive in several days, but it will take a month to complete all check-ups before the six-wheel rover can begin real driving.
Scientists estimate it'll take about a year to get to the lower slopes of the mountain.
The earlier Mars rover, Opportunity, has been sending high quality pictures back from Mars.
- AP
