Now uncocooned from its protective carbon-fiber shield, the helicopter is being readied for its next steps.

The first trek of the agency’s largest, most advanced rover yet on the Red Planet marks a major milestone before science operations get under way.

The award moves NASA and ESA a step closer to realizing Mars Sample Return, an ambitious planetary exploration program that will build upon decades of science, knowledge, and experience.

Mission team members are participating in a virtual teleconference to discuss milestones achieved so far since the Feb. 18 landing and those to come.

The agency’s newest rover captured first-of-its kind footage of its Feb. 18 touchdown and has recorded audio of Martian wind.

First-of-its kind footage from the agency’s newest rover will be presented during a briefing this morning.