Life On Mars? Probably!
Have you ever wondered if there is life on Mars? I recently learned the answer to that question. My dad and I went to SIUe to hear Steven Squyres. He was the man in charge of the Mars exploration mission. As part of SIU Edwardsville’s Arts & Issues series, he talked about the successes and mistakes NASA made on Mars.
The Meridian Ballroom was gigantic. There were probably 200 to 300 people there. I saw some people who looked very smart. There were a lot of guys with pony tails and long beards. Almost everyone wore glasses like me. My dad and I felt like the dumbest people there. This was a presentation of the SIUe Physics Department, after all. But it was terrific! I loved every minute of it.
The two rover’s names are Spirit and Opportunity. They are made up of six solar panels on their backs, four cameras, a drill, and six maneuverable wheels. Spirit was launched on June 10 and Opportunity launched on July 7 of 2003. To launch the rover to Mars safely, a heat shield is placed on the bottom and an air shield on top. A protective covering in the middle. While the rover is in the atmosphere, a parachute deploys. Right before the rover lands, huge air bags inflate, covering the entire rover. Once the rover stops on the surface, the air bags deflate and the pod unfolds. After this the rover drives off the pod and onto the Martian soil.
There were many pictures and videos throughout the presentation. Mr. Squyres said that there were more than 4,000 people who helped with this project! The main goal of this exploration was to find out if life could have been on Mars. The rovers did a lot and are doing research still today. There is evidence that life could have existed on Mars billions of years ago, but there is no life on Mars today. At least as we know it. The rovers are on day 2,223 of the 90 day mission. They are doing very well and have blown away the expectations of scientists.
After Steve’s presentation, his book, Roving Mars, was being sold outside the presentation room. I bought it and he signed it. After I finish the book I am currently reading (Star Wars Republic Commando - Hard Contact) I will read it. Mr. Squyres said that every picture he showed is on the internet. So if you want to see them, there out there.
