In some sense, the Mars Science Laboratory rover's parts are similar to what any living creature would need to keep it "alive" and able to explore.
The rover has a:
- body: a structure that protects the rovers´ "vital organs"
- brains: computers to process information
- temperature controls: internal heaters, a layer of insulation, and more
- "neck and head": a mast for the cameras to give the rover a human-scale view
- eyes and other "senses": cameras and instruments that give the rover information about its environment
- arm and "hand": a way to extend its reach and collect rock samples for study
- wheels and "legs": parts for mobility
- energy: batteries and power
- communications: antennas for "speaking" and "listening"
