You're invited to participate in a virtual experience as NASA gets ready to launch its Mars 2020 Perseverance rover. The launch is scheduled for 4:50 a.m. PDT, Thursday, July 30 in Cape Canaveral, FL.
The rover will land at Jezero Crater on Feb. 18, 2021. After landing, the rover will be collecting rock and soil samples to bring back to Earth. NASA's Perseverance rover is designed to look for ancient microbes on Mars. This launch also includes the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter, which will be the first helicopter to go to another planet.
You can register for mission information, highlights and interaction opportunities.
Here is a roundup of ways to follow and get involved in the mission.
NASA Social Event
Register for the Virtual NASA Social on Facebook to get a behind-the-scenes look at the mission.
Send Your Name to Mars, Again!
U.S. & World
News from around the country and around the globe
The rover will be carrying three dime-size chips with the names of 10.9 million people. Although names flying with Perseverance are already on board, you can send your name on the next flight to Mars.
#CountdownToMars
You can record a launch countdown video and tag it on social media using #CountdownToMars. If selected, your video will be featured on NASA social media accounts or could be shown on launch day.
Virtual Launch Packet
Check out this interactive booklet that has information on the Mars Mission and print products for the mission. You can also view it here.
Mars Photo Booth
Take a souvenir photo with NASA's virtual Mars Photo Booth.
Augmented Reality Filters
You can the use the following Augmented Reality Filters: Mars, Mission Control and 3D Rover
Get a Front Row Seat
Watch the launch with Oculus virtual reality technology.
Spacecraft 3D Rover Experience
Use this interactive 3D feature to learn about its various components of the rover.
Activities and Lessons for Students
Check out this collection of projects, toolkit and contests. You can also visit JPL's education website for Mars-themed lessons.
Mars 2020 STEM Toolkit
Here are STEM lessons and do-it-yourself projects
Ask Experts Anything
Experts from NASA, United Launch Alliance (ULA), the Department of Energy (DOE), and more will answer questions regarding the mission in a Reddit Ask Me Anything on Monday, July 27, at 1:30 p.m. PDT.
Watch and Engage
Twitter: @NASA, @NASAPersevere, @NASAMars
Facebook: NASA, NASAPersevere, NASAMars
Instagram: NASA
