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During the first of two landings in the Mars Exploration Rover mission, scientists and engineers were full of anticipation and anxiety the night that the rover 'Spirit' was due to land. Would the rover land safely and be able to complete its mission to find out about the geological history of the planet? This video segment shows the range of emotions experienced by NASA scientists and technicians as they observe the landing and the beginning of a new era of space exploration. Is also includes clips from an animation showing the atmospheric entry and landing of a Mars rover. A background essay and list of discussion questions are provided.

Disciplines:

• Science and Technology  / Astronomy