Comments on: Curiosity’s dramatic path forward

By: Robert Zimmerman

Robert Zimmerman — Sat, 05 Jun 2021 06:19:47 +0000

In reply to Blair K Ivey. Blair K Ivey: I am 90% sure that bearings are not an issue, nor any material that might get through the gaps. See these two webpages: Diagram of a Curiosity wheel The Mars Curiosity Rover Wheels and Legs The treads, called grousers, appear to carry the bulk of the cylinder structure strength. Moreover, if you look there are other gaps as large as the damage that were machined in on purpose. I think the wheel is more robust that it appears. Nonetheless, the damage is not a good thing, and over the coming months is going to require continuous monitoring. It might eventually cause them to retreat from the rough terrain they are presently in.

By: Blair K Ivey

Blair K Ivey — Sat, 05 Jun 2021 05:34:50 +0000

The wheel situation looks to be real problem. The latter image shows a significant increase in damage, along with what looks like the onset of general failure in that section. I would expect a hole that size would compromise the rover’s climbing ability. And every time that section rolls over ground, dust and pebbles will enter the wheel; putting bearings at risk at the least. Curious if the rover can be run in reverse, if there is more suitable ground on one side.

By: Jeff Wright

Jeff Wright — Sat, 05 Jun 2021 00:05:08 +0000

I have often thought the dismal images from Viking hurt Mars exploration. No danger of that here!