Curiosity lands safely

The NASA/JPL rover Curiosity landed safely on Mars this morning.

The nuclear powered rover should be good for up to two years of research. It may well give us a definitive answer as to whether microscopic life exists- or has existed- on the Red Planet.



One of my greatest regrets is that, due to the short-sightedness of American policy-makers and, of course, the collapse of the economy, I probably won't live to see human beings set foot on Mars. I grew up expecting that I would.

Maybe I'll be pleasantly surprised. But if not, at least we've got eyes up there, if not boots.

ADDENDUM: The Mars Orbital Reconnaissance satellite was passing overhead and actually photographed the landing!

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