29
May 2003
Mars special: Launch issues
A flotilla of three spacecraft is setting off for Mars in the next few weeks, making the most of a planetary alignment that makes for a short journey and light fuel load. This week's News Features describe the hardware being launched, and the thinking behind it.
Special section on Martian Exploration: Mars attracts!
JIM GILES
Interest in the red planet is about to peak,
as three missions prepare to join the hunt for water and life on one of our closest
neighbours.
Nature 423, 473 (2003); doi:10.1038/423473a
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Special section on Martian Exploration: Fantastic journeys
Early next year, three instrument-laden landers will touch
down on Mars. The Japanese craft Nozomi will enter orbit around the planet shortly
afterwards. By spring 2004, data on the red planet will be flowing thick and fast.
Nature 423, 474–475 (2003); doi:10.1038/423474a
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Special section on martian exploration: Are you on board?
DECLAN BUTLER
The Beagle 2 Mars lander has had some unusual
backers — among them British pop stars and artists. Declan Butler finds out
how one researcher's publicity drive got the project off the ground.
Nature
423, 476 (2003); doi:10.1038/423476a
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Special section on Martian Exploration: The comeback
kids
TONY REICHHARDT
NASA's Jet Propulsion
Laboratory practically invented planetary exploration. Then, in 1999, it lost
two craft in quick succession. Tony Reichhardt meets the staff behind two new
Mars rovers, which could restore the lab's reputation.
Nature 423,
477 (2003); doi:10.1038/423477a
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