Quantum Techs

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter has completed its mission on Mars after a hard landing damaged one of its rotor blades on January 18, 2024. The 4-pound (1.8 kg) helicopter is still upright and in contact with flight controllers, but it can no longer fly. 

Ingenuity landed on Mars on February 18, 2021, attached to the Perseverance rover. It first took off on April 19, 2021, proving that powered, controlled flight was possible on Mars. 

Over three years, Ingenuity performed 72 flights, covering more than 11 miles (17 kilometers) and totaling over two hours of flight time. It also served as a scout for the rover, helping it determine routes based on what Ingenuity saw during its flights. 

Image Credit: - NASA