Dive into the Red Planet: NASA's Dazzling Mars Gallery!

Mars has always captivated the human imagination with its distinct red hue and proximity to Earth, making it a prime candidate for exploration as humanity seeks to understand more about our solar system. The exploration of Mars began with flyby missions, progressed to orbiters, and has evolved to the deployment of rovers and the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter. These missions have dramatically enhanced our understanding of the planet's geology and climate while sparking public interest through stunning visuals, like those shared by NASA [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331).

The significance of Mars exploration extends beyond simple scientific curiosity. By studying Martian landscapes—such as its vast sand dunes, turbulent dust devils, and mysterious sulfur crystals—scientists glean insights into similar processes on Earth, potentially unlocking secrets about both planets' pasts [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331). Mars serves as a natural laboratory, offering lessons about planetary evolution and the conditions necessary for life, underscoring its importance in our quest to find extraterrestrial life.

Technological advancements driven by Mars missions have already begun to pay dividends. The Perseverance rover and the ingenious Ingenuity helicopter have showcased the feasibility of aerial exploration, setting the stage for future missions with more advanced drones like the proposed Nighthawk [3](https://astronomynow.com/2025/03/16/a-bigger-and-better-helicopter-to-mars/). These technologies are not only pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved on Mars but also influencing various Earth-based industries, from agriculture to disaster management [4](https://science.nasa.gov/planetary-science/programs/mars-exploration/).

The international nature of Mars exploration encourages collaboration and shared expertise among nations, fostering relationships that transcend borders [3](https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/senators-introduce-2025-nasa-authorization-bill/). Such collaborations pave the way for joint missions and shared scientific achievements, underlining space exploration as a unifying endeavor amidst global challenges. The collective exploration of Mars not only broadens scientific horizons but also strengthens political ties, reflecting humanity's shared aspiration to explore the unknown.

Public fascination with Mars is fueled by NASA's continuous stream of breathtaking images and mission milestones, capturing the imaginations of millions and inspiring the next generation of scientists and explorers [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331). As these missions continue to unveil the secrets of the Red Planet, they stand as a testament to human ingenuity and our unyielding quest for knowledge, reinforcing the importance of ongoing investment in space exploration initiatives.

NASA's latest release of breathtaking images from Mars showcases the wonders of the Red Planet in unprecedented detail. Captured by a variety of instruments including rovers, orbiters, and even the Hubble Space Telescope, these images reveal Martian landscapes that are as stunning as they are scientifically valuable. Among them are images of intricate sand dunes, swirling dust devils, and iridescent sulfur crystals that paint a vivid picture of Mars' diverse geology. The photos not only provide a visual feast but also hold clues to understanding the planet's climatic and atmospheric processes, as highlighted in this article.

The images from Mars serve as a testament to NASA's ongoing commitment to exploring our cosmic neighbor. With the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter making history with the first powered flight on another planet and the Perseverance rover diligently searching for signs of ancient life, the visual data provides crucial insights for scientists back on Earth. Not only do these images inspire the public and spark curiosity about space, but they also aid in selecting future mission sites and understanding Mars' potential for past habitability. Through the lens of NASA's cameras, Mars transforms from a distant, cold mystery to a world full of dynamic features, waiting to be explored further in missions to come, as outlined here.

These extraordinary images from NASA fuel not just scientific inquiry but also public imagination and interest in the cosmos. Dr. Tanya Harrison, a seasoned planetary scientist, underscores that such images connect people to the complexities of Martian terrain, making science accessible and appealing. Meanwhile, Dr. Jim Bell emphasizes the practical scientific applications of the images, highlighting how they facilitate detailed geological studies and help identify potential biosignatures. The striking visuals captured on Mars foster a sense of global awe and enthusiasm, driving public support for NASA's Mars programs, as supported by additional expert insights provided here and here.

The Ingenuity Helicopter's historic flight represents a monumental leap in space exploration and engineering. As the first powered, controlled flight conducted on another planet, it demonstrates the potential for aerial exploration of Mars and other celestial bodies. This technological feat opens up new possibilities for much more detailed reconnaissance and site exploration, complementing the data gathered by rovers and orbiters. The presence of an airborne scout like Ingenuity enhances the efficiency and broadened scope of missions like that of the Perseverance rover [source].

Ingenuity's success on Mars offers valuable insights into aerodynamics and flight mechanics in the thin Martian atmosphere, which contains only 1% of the density of Earth's atmosphere. Overcoming such challenges not only validates the design and engineering efforts behind the helicopter but also provides critical data that will inform the design of future aerial vehicles intended for use on other planets and moons. These insights set a precedent for exploring areas that are otherwise inaccessible to ground-based vehicles, highlighting NASA's innovative approaches in planetary exploration.

Besides aiding scientific exploration, Ingenuity's flights serve as a significant source of inspiration for public engagement in space exploration. It showcases human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration that drives technological advancement, capturing the imagination of people worldwide. The mission exemplifies the collaborative effort needed to tackle cosmic challenges, inviting global audiences to partake in the joy of discovery, all while showcasing the breathtaking vistas of our neighboring planet through stunning images [source].

Looking forward, the technological triumph of Ingenuity bolsters plans for more sophisticated aircraft, such as the proposed Nighthawk helicopter. This successor aims to carry heavier payloads over greater distances, potentially unlocking more in-depth exploration of regions like the Noctis Labyrinthus. Such advances will undoubtedly enhance our understanding of Martian geology and climate, and exemplify the continuous evolution of space exploration technology. The Ingenuity helicopter symbolizes the entry into a new era of interplanetary flight, providing both a direct technological benefit and fostering broader scientific and public support for space missions.

The Perseverance rover, one of NASA's most ambitious Martian missions, is designed to explore the surface of Mars with a suite of scientific instruments. Its primary objectives are to search for signs of ancient microbial life and to collect Martian soil and rock samples for future retrieval [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331). By analyzing these samples, scientists hope to gain insights into the planet's geology and climate, paving the way for future human missions to Mars.

Since its landing in the Jezero Crater, Perseverance has made numerous groundbreaking discoveries. Jezero was selected because it may have been home to a lake, complete with ancient river delta deposits, making it a rich site for studying past water activity on Mars. The rover has already identified a variety of rock types that suggest a history of significant water presence, vital information as scientists assess the planet's habitability [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331).

In addition to its geological pursuits, Perseverance carries the Ingenuity helicopter, which has successfully completed its mission of performing the first powered flight on another planet. This achievement marks a new era in space exploration, allowing scientists to consider innovative aerial perspectives for future missions. Ingenuity's success opens new possibilities for reaching inaccessible areas of Mars, vastly expanding the scope of scientific research [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331).

The rover is equipped with a sophisticated array of instruments including the SuperCam, which has already performed over 500,000 laser shots to identify rock compositions [2](https://www.eaps.purdue.edu/news/articles/2025/0313_roverlaser_wiens.html). This tool is critical in helping scientists choose which samples to collect for later analysis. By examining these samples on Earth, researchers expect to uncover secrets about Mars' ancient environment, further understanding its potential to harbor life.

As Perseverance continues its journey across the Martian terrain, it plays an integral role in NASA's roadmap for eventual human exploration of Mars. The samples collected by Perseverance are essential for the planned Mars Sample Return mission [1](https://science.nasa.gov/mars/the-mars-report/2025-february/). These samples will allow for detailed laboratory analysis that is currently impossible on-site, which may yield definitive evidence of past life on Mars and provide information critical for future colonization efforts.

Mars, the fourth planet from the Sun, has long fascinated scientists and curious minds alike. Its unique geological features, such as towering volcanoes and deep valleys, offer clues to the planet's fiery beginnings and its gradual evolution over billions of years. Among the most intriguing aspects of Martian geology are its vast sand dunes and the mysterious dust devils that dance across its surface. These phenomena are not only indicative of active geological processes but also provide valuable insights into the prevailing weather and atmospheric conditions on the Red Planet. NASA's Perseverance rover and other missions have captured stunning images that underscore the dynamic and varied landscape of Mars, highlighting the planet's striking resemblance in some aspects to Earth's own deserts. Such illustrations are essential in fueling public interest and support for ongoing Mars explorations as they make the alien world feel a bit closer to home ().

Sand dunes on Mars are expansive and come in various shapes and sizes, much like those found in desert regions on Earth. These dunes are primarily composed of basaltic material, remnants from ancient volcanic activity, and they continuously evolve under the influence of Martian winds. By studying these formations, scientists aim to unravel the complexities of Mars' climatic history and understand the role of winds in shaping the planet's surface over time. Detailed images captured by NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter have been pivotal in tracking these changes, as they facilitate a clearer understanding of how weathering and erosion processes contribute to the constant reshaping of the Martian landscape ().

Dust devils on Mars, akin to those on Earth, are formed by swirling columns of hot air that stir up the surface dust, leaving behind dark tracks. These fascinating whirlwinds provide crucial data to scientists studying Martian weather patterns. Observing these dust devils helps researchers gather information on surface temperature fluctuations and atmospheric pressure changes, which are vital for understanding the planet's current climate dynamics. Moreover, the dust moved by these devils could offer insights into Mars' potential for supporting future human missions by revealing regions with significant volatile deposits like water ice ().

The research into Martian sand dunes and dust devils highlights not only the complex meteorological conditions of our neighboring planet but also aids in comparative planetology—understanding how Earth-like processes operate elsewhere in our solar system. It's this intersection of curiosity, technology, and scientific inquiry that drives the exploration and study of Martian geology today. As NASA continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, each mission brings us one step closer to uncovering the secrets buried in the Red Planet's vast wilderness, fostering an era of discovery and possibility ().

Sulfur crystals on Mars represent a fascinating aspect of the planet's geology that offers vital clues about its past environmental conditions and potential habitability. These crystals, often found within certain Martian rocks, can form in the presence of water, providing scientists with evidence of hydrous processes that may have taken place millions or even billions of years ago. The presence of sulfur-bearing minerals on the Martian surface could indicate volcanic activity, hydrothermal systems, or processes similar to those that occur in desert environments on Earth. For instance, the discovery of these crystals can suggest that Mars had acidic and sulfur-rich water, potentially hosting unique microbial life forms if any existed at some point in the planet's history. NASA's ongoing exploration of Mars, including the analysis of sulfur crystals, underscores the importance of understanding these geological features to reconstruct the planet's complex history. In this context, striking images of Mars, such as those shared by NASA's missions, play a pivotal role in highlighting features like sulfur crystals, which not only appeal to the public's fascination but also guide scientific inquiry into Mars' ancient environments ().

Moreover, by understanding the mineralogical composition and distribution of sulfur crystals, researchers can infer past climate conditions and atmospheric chemistry. This knowledge helps to piece together Mars' climatic evolution and assess its transition from a potentially habitable environment to the arid, barren landscape we observe today. The data gathered from these studies are invaluable for scientists aiming to chart the history of water on Mars, as well as its implications for astrobiology. High-resolution images from various Mars missions, capturing the intricacies of Martian terrain and its geochemical attributes, enrich our comprehension of these processes. As a result, NASA's extensive photographic documentation of Mars serves as a crucial tool for both education and research, driving forward our quest to understand the Red Planet's history and its capacity to support life (see more ).

Furthermore, the study of sulfur crystals is integral to planning future Mars missions, including manned explorations and possible colonization efforts. By comprehending the chemical interactions of sulfur and other elements on Mars, scientists can develop better strategies for harnessing local resources to support human life. This includes the potential development of in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) technologies that would use Martian materials for life support and fuel. The influence of past water activity, as evidenced by sulfur formations, can also aid in identifying optimal landing sites for future missions, ensuring both scientific and exploratory success. The visual documentation of these areas, as shared by NASA, is instrumental in making informed decisions about where to direct further exploration ().

The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) plays a crucial role in our understanding of Martian weather patterns. Equipped with a suite of scientific instruments, the MRO can capture daily global views of Mars, enabling scientists to track weather phenomena like dust storms and seasonal changes, which are critical for planning future exploratory missions. This orbiter has been particularly instrumental in observing and analyzing the Martian atmosphere, providing data that help researchers understand how these weather patterns evolve and affect the planet's surface. The ability to monitor weather on Mars continuously helps scientists to predict potential challenges for missions and to adapt strategies accordingly, making it an essential asset in the preparation for both robotic and human expeditions to the Red Planet. The high-resolution images from the MRO have not only advanced our meteorological models but also served as a reference point for understanding potential shifts in climate over time. These images can be viewed in NASA's stunning collections online, such as those available in media coverage like the one found here.

Beyond meteorological insights, the MRO contributes significantly to the study of Mars' surface phenomena, such as dust devils and sand dunes. Dust devils, captured frequently by the MRO, offer a fascinating glimpse into the dynamic processes occurring in the Martian atmosphere, as their movements provide clues about wind directions and speeds. Sand dunes, on the other hand, serve as indicators of historical climatic conditions, revealing how wind patterns have a lasting impact on the Martian surface. The detailed imagery captured by the MRO's high-resolution cameras is pivotal for these studies, bolstering our understanding of both current atmospheric dynamics and the historical shifts that have shaped the Martian landscape.

The images and data collected by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter also play a crucial role in the selection of landing sites for missions. By analyzing the terrain's surface conditions and potential hazards, scientists can determine the most promising locations for exploration, whether for robotic rovers or future human missions. This meticulous site analysis is showcased in various scientific discussions and public forums, where researchers and the public alike engage with the latest findings and speculate on Mars' habitable potential. Such engagements are often encouraged by NASA's sharing of MRO images on platforms that promote space awareness and education, illustrated in articles like this comprehensive showcase.

The impact of NASA's Mars exploration on public engagement and perception cannot be overstated, especially with the release of ten stunning images of the Red Planet. These images, captured by NASA's rovers, orbiters, and the Hubble Space Telescope, serve as a powerful tool for sparking public curiosity and enthusiasm for space exploration. They vividly depict Martian features like sand dunes, dust devils, and sulfur crystals, offering the public a rare glimpse into another world. This visual engagement not only captivates a wide audience but also reinforces public support for scientific missions inspired by the beauty and complexity of Mars. Such images can be viewed directly through [DNA India](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331), where they are thoughtfully showcased to maximize their inspirational impact.

Moreover, these images underscore the technological achievements of NASA, such as the first powered flight on another planet by the Ingenuity helicopter and the geological explorations of the Perseverance rover. This technological prowess excites the public’s imagination and spurs discussions and speculations on various platforms, amplifying NASA's missions' reach beyond traditional scientific circles. The detailed visuals naturally lead to social media engagements where individuals express awe and wonder, contributing to a broader cultural appreciation for space science. Online discussions in forums, like those highlighted on NASA's [social media](https://www.nasa.gov/specials/nasa-social-media/), often involve not just admiration but deeper inquiries into the mission's scientific contributions and future implications.

Public perception is heavily influenced by the manner in which these images and achievements are shared. Experts like Dr. Tanya Harrison stress the importance of making scientific data accessible and visually appealing to bridge the gap between researchers and the public. By doing so, NASA and its partners ensure that stories of space exploration are not confined to academic journals but resonate with a global audience. This inclusion strategy is a fundamental shift in how public engagement is perceived and executed, as evidenced by the popular coverage these missions receive, like the storytelling format used by [DNA India](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331).

The awe and inspiration derived from these Martian images foster a supportive environment for educational initiatives and future missions. The involvement of the public, motivated by such thrilling images, plays a crucial role in advocating for sustained investment in space exploration. These missions are not just scientific pursuits but also cultural phenomena that inspire educational interests in STEM fields. The positive perception cultivated by these visuals helps ensure continued funding and support for ambitious projects like the Mars Sample Return mission, highlighting the importance of engaging public storytelling in sustaining exploration endeavors.

The exploration of Mars represents one of the most challenging and ambitious endeavors in space science. As humanity continues to strive towards new boundaries, the potential of Mars exploration holds significant promise for the future. With the increasing sophistication of technology and the collaborative efforts of international space agencies, the exploration of Mars promises not only to enrich our understanding of the Red Planet but also to provide insights that could be vital for the future of space exploration. By studying Mars, we hope to uncover the secrets of its ancient climate and geological processes, which in turn could help us understand the early history of our own planet. The opportunity to apply advanced technologies and methodologies to explore another world has never been more exciting. [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331)

Innovative exploration missions such as NASA's Ingenuity Mars Helicopter and the Perseverance Rover have opened new horizons. Ingenuity's successful flights demonstrate the potential for aerial vehicles to scout and map the Martian terrain from above, providing new perspectives that ground-based rovers alone cannot achieve. [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331) This kind of exploration could one day lead to the development of more advanced drones capable of profound scientific research over vast and inaccessible territories on Mars. Meanwhile, Perseverance continues to search for signs of past life, study the planet's climate, and collect soil and rock samples, paving the way for future human missions. [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331)

The potential for Mars exploration to revolutionize technology on Earth is significant. Through necessity, the endeavor requires the advancement of frontier technologies such as robotics, AI, and renewable energy. These technological innovations, driven by the goals of surviving the harsh Martian environment and conducting extensive scientific research, often find innovative applications back on Earth. For instance, the development of the Mars Sample Return mission will likely advance techniques in material science and remote operations, enhancing industries ranging from healthcare to engineering. [2](https://www.nasa.gov/nasa-impact/)

The successful exploration of Mars offers profound implications beyond scientific discovery, spanning economic, social, and political realms. Economically, it promises job creation and the fostering of new industries as technologies developed for Mars exploration are commercialized. [2](https://www.nasa.gov/nasa-impact/) On the social front, Mars exploration inspires educational endeavors and stimulates interest in STEM fields among the youth, nurturing the future workforce needed for continued scientific innovation. Politically, collaborative Mars missions showcase international diplomacy and cooperation, potentially easing tension by uniting nations in a common quest for knowledge and discovery. [3](https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/senators-introduce-2025-nasa-authorization-bill/)

Standing on the shoulders of technological and scientific giants, the future of Mars exploration is on the brink of greatness. With planned missions aimed at returning samples from Mars, the ongoing quest to understand potential life there, and the constant development of technology, the coming years hold vast potential for discovery and learning. [3](https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/senators-introduce-2025-nasa-authorization-bill/) This journey not only aids in comprehending the mysteries of our solar system but also acts as a beacon of human achievement, showcasing our ability to transcend the limits of current technology and understanding, beckoning the next generation of explorers to Mars and beyond.

As humanity pushes the frontiers of space exploration, international collaborations have become a pivotal element in the pursuit of unlocking the mysteries of our cosmos. Notably, joint ventures such as the Artemis program—which fosters alliances with various international space agencies—highlight shared ambitions and the strategic pooling of resources to achieve monumental goals in space exploration. These collaborations not only enhance scientific and technological capabilities but also yield significant diplomatic and geopolitical benefits. Engaging in collaborative efforts allows countries to leverage each other's unique strengths and expertise, promoting a spirit of peaceful cooperation and mutual benefits in the vast expanse of outer space. Initiatives like these pave the way for shared responsibilities and unified ambitions, demonstrating that the synergy achieved through collaboration transcends national boundaries and propels humanity towards a future where deep-space exploration and understanding are attainable goals.

The implications of collaborative space efforts extend into policy changes that reflect the complexity and scale of such international ventures. As space-faring nations commit to joint missions and share technology, policies must adapt to support these endeavors, emphasizing collaboration over competition. For instance, the proposed 2025 NASA Authorization Bill underscores the importance of fostering commercial partnerships and endorses a balanced scientific program, which includes international contributions and benefits. Such shifts in policy spotlight the role of international partnerships in advancing human space exploration, ensuring that efforts are not duplicative but rather complementary, maximizing the benefits to all parties involved.

Moreover, the policy landscape is continuously shaped by the outcomes and progress of these collaborative missions. Success in missions like Mars Sample Return or continued achievements in projects involving the Perseverance rover inform future policies and funding allocations. By closely observing these developments, policymakers can make informed decisions that ensure sustained support and strategic investments into space exploration activities. These considerations are crucial as nations intensify their space endeavors, navigating the complex interplay between national interests and global aspirations in the realm of space exploration.

The technological advancements spurred by Mars missions have far-reaching implications for both the space industry and myriad sectors here on Earth. As NASA and its collaborators strive to understand Mars, they are paving the way for significant progress in robotics, artificial intelligence, and materials science. The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter, for instance, has demonstrated the first powered, controlled flight on another planet, showcasing novel aerial technologies [1](https://www.dnaindia.com/web-stories/viral/10-stunning-images-of-mars-shared-by-nasa-1742738966331). Such innovations are not relegated to space exploration alone; they hold potential benefits for industries as diverse as agriculture, where enhanced drone capabilities could revolutionize crop monitoring [4](https://science.nasa.gov/planetary-science/programs/mars-exploration/).

Economically, Mars missions are a catalyst for job creation and economic development, driving demand across a multitude of sectors. From engineers and scientists to data analysts, the opportunities burgeoning from these explorations are immense. This growth is further amplified by the burgeoning private space sector, with companies like SpaceX collaborating on missions like NASA's Artemis program, which is instrumental in setting the stage for human presence on Mars [3](https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/senators-introduce-2025-nasa-authorization-bill/). Beyond immediate economic benefits, the long-term focus on In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) on Mars promises innovations in sustainable mining and resource management that could address terrestrial challenges [4](https://science.nasa.gov/planetary-science/programs/mars-exploration/).

Mars missions also exert a profound social impact by fostering a culture of curiosity and learning. The captivating images of Mars, highlighted by experts like Dr. Tanya Harrison, play a crucial role in inspiring public interest and engagement with space exploration [1](https://www.planetary.org/articles/dr-harrison-mars-image-processing). Such interest can be a springboard for educational initiatives that encourage students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), paving the way for a more skilled workforce [2](https://www.nasa.gov/nasa-impact/). As we move closer to potentially discovering signs of past life on Mars, ethical questions surrounding planetary protection and the impact of human activity on alien ecosystems come to the fore, necessitating a thoughtful global discourse [2](https://www.nasa.gov/nasa-impact/).

Politically, the collaborative nature of Mars exploration fosters international partnerships that can soothe geopolitical tensions and lead to joint scientific and technological advancements [3](https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/senators-introduce-2025-nasa-authorization-bill/). Initiatives like the Artemis program exemplify such collaboration, involving numerous countries and space agencies [6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exploration_of_Mars). These endeavors also shape the policies of space-faring nations, determining funding allocation and mission priorities. For instance, the proposed 2025 NASA Authorization Bill underscores a commitment to human spaceflight and commercial partnerships, reflecting the increasingly pivotal role of private enterprise in space exploration [3](https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/senators-introduce-2025-nasa-authorization-bill/).

In terms of future implications, the ongoing Mars missions are not just milestones in human exploration but are shaping how nations approach resource management both on Earth and in space. As the pursuit of Mars exploration intensifies, the space race transcends competition, becoming a catalyst for resource allocation debates and international collaboration, ensuring that the challenges and rewards of space exploration are shared globally [3](https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/senators-introduce-2025-nasa-authorization-bill/). This global effort illustrates a shift in how nations perceive and engage with space, marking a new era of cooperation and coexistence in our pursuit to explore the cosmos.