Humanity’s first-ever attempt at flight on another world is about to take place, as NASA gears up for the inaugural test of its “Ingenuity†Mars helicopter this week.
Weighing in at less than two kilograms, Ingenuity is a small drone that was carried to the surface of Mars by NASA’s Perseverance rover, which landed in Jezero Crater in February.
While the rover is preparing to hunt for signs of past life on Mars, Ingenuity – which cost $85 million to build and operate – first has a 30-day window to attempt up to five flights on the surface.
Having been deployed from the belly of the rover over the last few weeks, Ingenuity is now sitting out alone on the surface of Mars, with Perseverance watching from a safe distance.
If Ingenuity’s first flight is successful, the team will attempt more daring flights in the coming weeks.
At most, only one flight per day is possible, as Ingenuity needs time to recharge its battery with its solar panels.
But whatever comes first, 30 days or five flights, Ingenuity will hopefully have been able to do something few thought possible – fly on another planet.