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NASA is preparing its next mission to Mars in 2020 in a lava field in Iceland, completing the mission of the Kuristi probe, which since 2012 has been exploring the Red Planet's indicators for life.
For three weeks, the Lampahrun field was transformed into a theater for 15 scientists and engineers sent by NASA. The volcanic island in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean resembles the nature of Mars, with its black basalt sand, wind-sculpted dunes, black rocks and nearby peaks.
"This is an excellent simulation of Mars exploration and probe training," said Adam Delorier, Mission Control Space Services Manager.
NASA commissioned the Canadian company based in Ottawa to test a prototype spacecraft as part of the Sand-E project. The small electric vehicle, with its white sides and orange structure, moves on four tires driven by two side engines that act like an excavator thanks to 12 small car batteries concealed inside.
"This probe is supernatural," says Adam Delorier. "The probes we have on Mars and the Moon are very influenced by the environment and conditions in Iceland." "The lunar probe is not prepared for rain," he said.
The sensor, equipped with sensors, a computer and a dual lens camera, is remotely controlled at a speed of 20 centimeters per second. It weighs 570 kg.
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