Mars Surface Exploration: Past, Present, Future

On July 4, 1976, NASA landed its first spacecraft on the surface of Mars. Called Viking, this expedition included only a lander with a long arm. Due to the vast expense and relatively little yield for the effort, the mission wasn’t repeated. Fast forward to the 1990’s, and NASA undertook a less expensive but very aggressive mission – Pathfinder. Pathfinder changed the game for the exploration of Mars and launched the programs we know today. While human curiosity for Mars has remained constant, the questions we seek answers to have changed and evolved, requiring different tools. What’s changed? What’s remained the same? And what’s next?

Join us for this exciting virtual Science in the City event with former NASA Lead Engineer, Chris Voorhees. Chris shares his experiences as a lead engineer working on Mars Rovers over the decades – from the early days of Pathfinder to the Spirit, Opportunity, and Curiosity missions, and finally the work he and his team at First Mode have undertaken for the latest launch: Mars 2020, Perseverance. In his talk, Chris also discusses insights and lessons learned over two decades of Mars exploration, examining the past, the present, and the future.

Livestream Information

We invite the global community to participate from their homes via livestream found on Pacific Science Center’s YouTube page. Advanced registration is required, and the link to the livestream will be sent out via email on the day of the event. The livestream begins at 7 p.m.

Cost: Free / Suggested donation, $10

Recommended Ages: All Ages

Members receive program and event discounts and free admission. Become a PacSci Member