Curiosity lands on Mars! (photos)

by Laura Shin  |  August 6, 2012  |  Image 13 of 16

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This image illustrates the principles of a technique called "laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy," which the ChemCam will use on Mars. The technique fires pulses of a laser at a target such as a rock. Energy from the laser excites a pinhead-size spot on the target into glowing, ionized gas called plasma. Spectrometers in the instrument analyzes the spectrum of light emitted by the plasma to identify chemical elements in the target. (NASA/JPL-Caltech)

This image illustrates the principles of a technique called "laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy," which the ChemCam will use on Mars. The technique fires pulses of a laser at a target such as a rock. Energy from the laser excites a pinhead-size spot on the target into glowing, ionized gas called plasma. Spectrometers in the instrument analyzes the spectrum of light emitted by the plasma to identify chemical elements in the target. (NASA/JPL-Caltech) - Image 13 of 16

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Way to Go NASA!
Listened to/watched a presentation on the landing technique. Incredibly complex! And it worked!! Such a deal!
Posted by Trilogy
6th Aug
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Mars and beyond
I'm turning 64 this year. I have been following all NASA missions and launches since I was very young and my mother instilled the importance and meanings of this work. This landing is the climax of all this wonderful work to date. Here is to you NASA and my late mom as well.
Posted by JoseJavaho48
6th Aug
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Great Job NASA
Good one NASA, now lets see if we Americans can keep the money flowinng, so there are more sucess's in the future!!
Posted by rasman58
6th Aug
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Hurrah!Congrats NASA/US on the splendid achievement.
Hurrah!Congratulations NASA/USA on this splendid achievement.I followed "CURIOSITY" curiously from inception till safe landing.My name included in microchip on board "CURIOSITY" so very happy. Keep it up USA. Muhammad Javed Mahmood
Posted by Muhammad Javed Mahmood
Updated - 6th Aug
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