Mars Rover team to share stories

It’s been a year of triumphs for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s Mars Exploration Rover team, with the successful landing of not one but two robotic Mars rovers and the subsequent exploration of that alien landscape. On Tuesday, May 4, the MER team members will take part in a panel discussion to share their fascinating experiences at the helm of the rovers.

JPL Director Charles Elachi will introduce MER team members Pete Theisinger, Richard Cook, Joy Crisp, and others in “Seeing Mars from Both Sides,” a panel discussion sponsored by the Caltech Management Association. The event will run from noon to 1:30 p.m. in Beckman Auditorium.

In addition to listening to the stories of these men and women who exemplify leadership, attendees will see the latest results from the always-surprising surface of Mars. Joining the MER team on the stage will be a full-scale rover model named “Marvin,” and in the auditorium’s foyer visitors will be able to view a 15-foot panoramic view of a landing site in full three-dimensional glory, as well as other large-format pictures.

Members of the association will get special seating at this event as well as a chance to win one of two Lego rover kits with the boxes signed by the panelists. Caltech Management Association membership signups and renewals will be available outside of the auditorium for $10.

This event is free and open to all Caltech and JPL community members and retirees. For further information, send an e-mail to cma.announce@jpl.nasa.gov, or call (818) 354-6689.