NASA’s Mars helicopter Ingenuity ended its historic trip after rotor damage during its latest flight. Ingenuity’s contributions to future solar system travel missions and wiser, safer human exploration of Mars and beyond were lauded by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson.
NASA’s Mars Helicopter Ingenuity Ends Historic Mission After Rotor Damage
Ingenuity, the first aircraft to travel to another planet, ended its incredible mission following rotor-blade damage. Ingenuity launched with NASA’s Perseverance rover in February 2021 to prove powered flight in Mars’ thin atmosphere. It completed five flights in spring 2021.
NASA extended Ingenuity’s mission to 67 flights, exceeding helicopter predictions. Ingenuity, a Perseverance scout, traversed 11 kilometers of Martian terrain in nearly three years despite its 30-day mission.
Ingenuity attempted its final trip on January 18, but it had trouble communicating with the rover, and photos showed rotor blade damage upon landing. Though it failed, Ingenuity’s history as the first aircraft to fly on Mars remains assured, paving the way for future aerial exploration of Mars.
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NASA’s Ingenuity: Pioneering Mars Helicopter’s Legacy Sparks Future Aerial Missions
NASA will send more Ingenuity-like helicopters to help Perseverance collect materials for Earth. In addition, inspired by Ingenuity, the agency is constructing larger and more capable helicopters for Mars science missions.
NASA’s Mars helicopter Ingenuity is done after rotor damage on its last flight. Despite this loss, Ingenuity’s contributions to Martian exploration cemented its legacy and prepared the ground for future aerial expeditions.