NASA's Next Mars rover honours healthcare workers battling coronavirus

As a mark of respect all the healthcare workers fighting coronavirus battle around the world, NASA's Next Mars rover revealed a commemorative plate attached to the rover,called the COVID-19 Perseverance plate.

Deputy project manager Matt Wallace of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, said that medical workers have inspired them and he hopes that this Perseverance plate inspires them in return.

NASA's next Mars rover is scheduled to be launched on July 20, 2020. The launch is scheduled for 9.15 am ET with a two-hour window. If the rover isn’t launched by mid-August, it would need to wait until 2022 when Earth and Mars are back in proper alignment.

Also Read: NASA postpones Mars rover Perseverance launch to July 20

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In April, NASA developed high-pressure ventilator to fight COVID-19. The device called VITAL is intended to last three to four months and is specifically tailored for COVID-19 patients, according to NASA.

This high-pressure ventilator offers a simple, affordable option for treating critical patients while freeing up traditional ventilators for those with the most severe COVID-19 symptoms. Its flexible design means it also can be modified for use in field hospitals, the NASA statement read.

Also Read: SpaceX becomes first commercial company to launch NASA astronauts

Three Indian companies, apart from 18 other companies from other countries, have been selected by NASA to manufacture its indigenously developed ventilators.

(With inputs from agencies)