• The most common operation methods for a rover takes several command cycles—about once every six hours on Mars, depending on the location—to get the rover set up. By reducing that time, the rover can accomplish more science.
  • While TextureCam will allow the rover or satellite to better prioritize the data it sends to Earth, Thompson stressed that it isn't meant to take the place of human scientists.
  • With plans in the works for a future Europa mission, a more automated rover could prove useful when it comes time to explore the surface of the icy moon of Jupiter.

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