NASA’s ESCAPADE probes, named Blue and Gold, recently launched on a mission to Mars. These spacecraft, designed and built by Rocket Lab, carry a unique payload – the first kiwis to fly to the red planet. As a nod to Rocket Lab’s New Zealand origins, the probes feature kiwi bird graphics on plaques attached to their solar panels, alongside the company’s logo and motto.
Named after the University of California, Berkeley’s colors, Blue and Gold represent a significant step in Mars exploration. These twin satellites aim to study how space weather influences Mars’ atmosphere loss. Lindsay McLaurin, Rocket Lab’s senior communications manager, highlighted the tradition of incorporating kiwis into the company’s designs.
This unique addition showcases the blend of technology and culture in space exploration missions, adding a touch of creativity to the scientific endeavor. The kiwis aboard Blue and Gold symbolize Rocket Lab’s heritage and the teamwork involved in building these spacecraft bound for Mars.
Source: Ars Technica