NASA Rover Begins Long Cruise to Mars

by Mike Wall, SPACE.com Senior Writer

Date: 26 November 2011 Time: 03:19 PM ET

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This onboard view shows the successful spacecraft separation about 45 minutes after launch. The Mars Science Laboratory, or Curiosity rover, is now on its way to Mars. CREDIT: NASA TV View full size image

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — With a picture-perfect launch behind it, NASA's new Mars rover has begun the long trek to the Red Planet.
The car-size Curiosity rover blasted off today (Nov. 26) at 10:02 a.m. EST (1502 GMT) from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station here, and separated from its Atlas 5 rocket right on schedule, about 45 minutes later.

MORE: http://www.space.com/13741-nasa-mars-rover-curiosity-cruise-mode.html







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