Mars Rovers Enter New Phase of Exploration

Spirit and Opportunity both still have both spirit and opportunity.  Mission scientists said yesterday that the rovers have reached new locations that provide new targets for scientific research; it’s like starting the missions all over again, they commented.
    Spirit has reached the Columbia Hills, where it hopes to climb and explore rock outcrops.  It has also discovered some of the same nodules and layering seen on the other side of the planet, and some unusual cusps called cobra hoods.  Opportunity has made tentative downhill tracks that prove it is safe to enter Endurance Crater.  It sees a geological contact ahead that looks interesting.  Both rovers, with only minor glitches, are fit as a fiddle and ready to move.

Since this is a work in progress, it is premature to draw conclusions; it’s a time to enjoy the postcards from this vicarious adventure.