Mars: Dead or Alive

Originally broadcast just as the first of the Mars-sent twin rovers (named "Spirit" and "Opportunity") was experiencing temporary communication problems with Earth-bound mission controllers, this riveting hour-long NOVA episode chronicles the risky $820 million Mars Exploration Rover (MER) project from design to touchdown in early 2004, dramatically illustrating (through the use of detailed simulations and sophisticated computer animation) the considerable chances of failure in this nail-biting gamble (fully two-thirds of previous Mars missions never reached their destination). From the rigorous testing (and initial failure) of the MER parachute system to the celebrated transmission of pristine photos from the "Spirit" landing site, viewers witness the complexity and emotional intensity of the mission, especially for Cornell University astronomer and lead MER scientist Steve Squyres and his devoted team of colleagues at Pasadena's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Careers are on the line here, and as deadlines loom and technical problems mount, one feels the same mixture of dread, anxiety, and elation that accompanied the historic return of Apollo 13. DVD extras include a bonus interview with Mars-mission pioneer Donna Shirley, an interview with Squyres, a detailed look at the anatomy of the Mars rovers, links to a companion website, and a "math activity" feature illustrating the aerodynamic variables of parachute design. Recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (J. Shannon)