Opportunity Aims For 'Spirit Point'
Department:
Mars
Teaser:
"NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity is driving toward a destination informally named "Spirit Point" in honor of the rover's twin."
Source:
News and Features - NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory Download time: Jun 10 2011 9:16 AM ET
When NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity reaches the rim of a large crater it is approaching, its arrival will come with an inspiring reminder.
This crater, Endeavour, became the rover's long-term destination nearly three years ago. Opportunity has driven about 11 miles (18 kilometers) since climbing out of Victoria crater in August 2008, with Endeavour crater beckoning to the southeast. The rover has about 2 miles (about 3 kilometers) to go before reaching the rim of Endeavour.
Rover team members last week selected "Spirit Point" as the informal name for the site on the rim where Opportunity will arrive at Endeavour crater. The choice commemorates Opportunity's rover twin, Spirit, which has ended communication and finished its mission.…
