Mars rover landers

Mars rover landers are specialized spacecraft designed to deliver robotic explorers to the Martian surface. They first detach from orbit or transit vehicles, then use parachutes, retrorockets, or skycranes to gently land. Once on the ground, they deploy rovers equipped with cameras, scientific instruments, and tools to study Mars's geology, climate, and potential habitability. Landers sometimes include stationary platforms for long-term observations. Their purpose is to gather data that helps scientists understand the planet's history, environment, and suitability for future human exploration. Examples include the Viking, Pathfinder, and InSight missions.