Slowed by retro-rockets

Slowed by retro-rockets
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Once the parachute is jettisoned, the craft is slowed by retro-rockets, capable of vertical and horizontal movements that stabilize the rover and move it out of the way of the parachute so that it doesn't become tangled.

At this point, the rover begins using radar, and its cameras see the surface and spot the landing area, ensuring it makes a safe landing.

August 4, 2012 11:42 AM PDT

Photo by: NASA/JPL-Caltech

| Caption by: James Martin

 

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