NASA's new Mars rover will have a powerful laser

Posted on Monday, June 11 2007 @ 0:07 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck

NASA is preparing its next Mars mission and the design of its new Mars rover is pretty interesting.

SciFi reports the vehicle will be the size of a small car and will weigh nearly 1,800 pound. It will be powered by a nuclear reactor as solar power won't be able to provide the vehicle with enough juice.

It will be packed with all kinds of scientific gadgetry including a laser capable of evaporating rock samples from over 40 feet away, three cameras, an alpha-particle x-ray spectrometer, and of course wheels and an engine to get around.

About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.

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