Map a Mars Rover Driving Route (Estimate Duration : 52 mins) Copy

Refer to:

Trainer’s Guide Pages 22 – 34

Slides Part 1 Nos 1 – 9

Workbook Pages 3 – 6

It’s a tough job driving a Mars rover – not just because of the complexity of these robotic explorers, but also because of the distance between Earth and the challenging terrain that we’re trying to cross. To determine the best and safest path for our rovers, we rely largely on satellite imagery from spacecraft orbiting the Red Planet such as the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter that give us a look at what lies ahead.

In this activity, you will plan your own path for the rover to see just how challenging it can be to get from one place to another on Mars.