Mars Pathfinder sent a
lander and small robotic rover, Sojourner, to the surface of Mars. The primary
objective of the mission is to demonstrate a low-cost way of delivering a science package
to the surface of the red planet using a direct entry, descent and landing with the aid of
small rocket engines, a parachute, airbags and other techniques. Landers and
free-ranging rovers of the future will share the heritage of Mars Pathfinder designs and
technologies first tested in this mission. In addition, Pathfinder studied ancient
rocks to understand the nature of the early environment on Mars and the processes that
have led to features that exist today.
