"20 Years of Mars Exploration: The Enduring Legacy of Spirit and Opportunity"

NASA's Spirit and Opportunity rovers, which landed on Mars 20 years ago, far outlived their warranties and made significant discoveries, including evidence of past water on Mars and potential habitats for microbial life. Opportunity set a record by covering more than a marathon distance on Mars. Their scientific accomplishments and robust engineering paved the way for larger rovers like Curiosity and Perseverance, and their experiences improved techniques for exploring Martian terrain. Today, their legacy continues through ongoing Mars exploration missions and the inspiration they provide to those in the field.