Mars rover to make risky crater descent
Ap, Los Angeles
Nasa's aging but durable Mars rover Opportunity will make what could be a trip of no return into a deep impact crater as it tries to peer further back than ever into the Red Planet's geologic history. The descent into Victoria Crater received the go-ahead because the potential scientific returns are worth the risk that the solar-powered, six-wheel rover might not be able to climb out, Nasa officials and scientists said Thursday. The vehicle has been roaming Mars for nearly 3 1/2 Earth years. Scientists and engineers want to send it in while it still appears healthy. "This crater, Victoria, is a window back into the ancient environment of Mars," said Alan Stern, the Nasa associate administrator who authorised the move.
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