Mars exploration rover

Mars Exploration Rovers (MER) are a pair of robotic spacecraft sent by NASA to explore the Martian surface. The two rovers that were part of this mission were named "Spirit" and "Opportunity." Here's some information about them:

1. **Spirit**:
- Launched: June 10, 2003
- Landed: January 4, 2004, in Gusev Crater
- Mission Duration: Spirit operated for over six years, far beyond its original 90-day mission.
- Objectives: Spirit's primary goal was to study the Martian geology, climate, and search for signs of past water activity.
- Notable Achievements: Discovered evidence of past water on Mars, volcanic features, and conducted a variety of geological experiments.
- End of Mission: Communication with Spirit was lost in March 2010, and NASA officially declared the mission concluded in May 2011.

2. **Opportunity**:
- Launched: July 7, 2003
- Landed: January 25, 2004, in Meridiani Planum
- Mission Duration: Opportunity far exceeded its expected mission lifespan. It operated for over 14 years.
- Objectives: Opportunity had similar goals to Spirit, exploring the Martian surface, studying geology, and searching for signs of past water.
- Notable Achievements: Discovered strong evidence of ancient water on Mars, including mineral deposits and geological formations.
- End of Mission: Opportunity faced a dust storm in 2018 that led to its loss of power. NASA officially declared the mission concluded in February 2019.

Both rovers provided invaluable data and insights into the history of water on Mars, the planet's geology, and its potential habitability in the past. They greatly exceeded their expected mission lifespans and contributed significantly to our understanding of the Red Planet.