NASA is developing a Mars helicopter that could land itself from orbit

NASA Space Technology

Space

The largest and most ambitious Martian drone yet could carry kilograms of scientific equipment over great distances and set itself down on the Red Planet unassisted

By Matthew Sparkes

NASA Space Technology New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine. — The Ingenuity Mars helicopter, the predecessor to Chopper
NASA/JPL-Caltech

NASA is working on plans to send another helicopter to Mars. The craft would land itself after screaming into the planet’s atmosphere at speed, before covering several kilometres a day while carrying scientific equipment.

Several landers have safely touched down on the surface of Mars using parachutes and rockets to slow their descent. Some have even contained wheeled rovers that could explore the surface. Then came NASA’s helicopter drone Ingenuity. Although it was engineered on a shoestring budget, it managed to make a surprising 72 flights on the Red Planet,…

Unlock this article

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 15 December 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

Existing subscribers