Steve Squyres is the principal investigator of the Mars Exploration Rover mission. He appeared on Colbert Report. (This episode was a while ago, but I'm only just catching up on some of my weblog reading.) You know how Colbert sometimes steamrolls his guests with his bald-faced absurdities… well Squyres didn’t flinch once. Choice quotes:
Tonight’s guest is a pioneer in Mars exploration. Hopefully, tonight he’ll explain how they faked a space landing there too.
Have you found evidence of water there?
We have found evidence that there was water below the surface and that water flowed across the surface, yes.
Have you found any evidence that there might be some oil?
No, not a bit, not a bit I’m sorry.
Not a trace.
Because that might come in handy.
We intended these things to last for 90 days; today is day 863 and the mission is still going on…
…they’re starting to get a little worn out, but of course they’re getting worn out in different ways.
Have you guys thought about designing for GM?
You know, maybe we should talk to them about that.
Because those things run out pretty quick.
What other planets have you explored?
Personally I’ve been involved in missions to Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn.
What’s your favorite planet?
Earth.Chuckles, nods.
Earth.
Mmhmm. Because America’s here?
Great fun.
