Summary

Pre-Launch Activities

Launch

Cruise

Approach

Entry, Descent, and Landing

First Drive

Surface Operations

Launch Sequence Diagram
Key events during launch are shown in the launch sequence diagram.

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The following are computer generated scenes depicted from the simulated Mars Science Laboratory launch (325 Mb).

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Curiosity Rover on the Launch Pad

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Rocket Launched

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Burnout and Jettison of the 4 Solid Rocket Motors

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Jettison of the Payload Fairing

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Booster Engine Cuttoff

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Atlas and Upper Stage Centaur Separation

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Stage 1 Main Engine Starts (MES 1)

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First Main Engine Cutoff (MECO 1)

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Stage 2 Main Engine Starts (MES 2)

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Second Main Engine Cutoff (MECO 2)

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Curiosity Spacecraft Separates to Cruise Phase