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Promoting thermoelectric technology to mitigate global climate change
NASA’s Mars Science Laboratory mission is preparing to set down a large, mobile laboratory — the rover Curiosity — using precision landing technology that makes many of Mars’ most intriguing regions viable destinations for the first time. During the 23 months after landing, Curiosity will analyze dozens of samples drilled from rocks or scooped from the ground as it explores with greater range than any previous Mars rover.
The rover’s electrical power will be supplied by a U.S. Department of Energy radioisotope thermoelectric power generatorCuriosity will carry the most advanced payload of scien- tific gear ever used on Mars’ surface, a payload more than 10 times as massive as those of earlier Mars rovers. Its assignment: Investigate whether conditions have been favorable for microbial life and for preserving clues in the rocks about possible past life.
Look inside the clean room at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., to watch the next Mars rover being built (http://www.ustream.tv/nasajpl).
The MRS is holding its annual election of MRS Board Members. I (Terry M. Tritt ) have been nominated by the internal nominating committee. If you are a MRS member you will receive instructions on voting for the Board members. Only MRS Members can vote. I would appreciate your vote. As many of you know I have worked hard at the inclusion of thermoelectrics within the MRS community and hope to see that expanded even more so.
