How does a Mars Rover work (Perseverance)

The **Mars rover Perseverance**, part of NASA's Mars 2020 mission, is a state-of-the-art robotic explorer designed to investigate the surface of Mars. Here's a breakdown of how it works:

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### **Key Components and Systems**
1. **Power System:**
- Powered by a **Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG)**, which converts heat from the decay of plutonium-238 into electricity.
- Provides about **110 watts of continuous power**, recharging lithium-ion batteries for peak energy demands.

2. **Mobility System:**
- Equipped with **six wheels** featuring titanium spokes and cleats for traction on Mars' rocky surface.
- A **rocker-bogie suspension system** allows it to navigate uneven terrain and climb obstacles up to 40 centimeters (16 inches) high.
- Travels at about **0.1 miles per hour** (0.16 kilometers per hour) but can cover significant distances using autonomous navigation.

3. **Autonomous Navigation:**
- Perseverance uses a combination of cameras, sensors, and advanced software to map the terrain and avoid hazards.
- The **Hazard Avoidance Cameras (HazCams)** and **Navigation Cameras (NavCams)** provide 3D imaging of the surrounding area.
- Machine learning helps it plan optimal routes without constant human intervention.

4. **Science Instruments:**
- **SHERLOC and PIXL:** Detect and analyze organic compounds and elemental composition on a microscopic scale.
- **Mastcam-Z:** A camera system for high-definition imaging and 3D stereo photos.
- **MOXIE:** A device that produces oxygen from Martian atmospheric CO₂, testing technology for future human missions.
- **RIMFAX:** Ground-penetrating radar for studying subsurface layers.
- **SuperCam:** A laser-based spectrometer that identifies minerals and organic compounds from a distance.

5. **Sample Collection and Storage:**
- Perseverance drills into rocks and soil to collect core samples.
- Samples are sealed in titanium tubes and stored on the rover or cached on the surface for future retrieval by a later mission.

6. **Communication System:**
- Equipped with **X-band radios** to communicate with Earth via the **Deep Space Network**.
- Relays data through orbiters like **Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO)** and **ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter**.

7. **Environmental Adaptations:**
- Insulated to withstand temperatures from -130°F to 70°F (-90°C to 20°C).
- Dust-resistant design for the harsh Martian environment.

8. **Ingenuity Helicopter:**
- Perseverance carries **Ingenuity**, a small drone that performs short flights to scout terrain and demonstrate powered flight on Mars.