Mars antenna work at full pace

NASA's huge telescope in California, the 'Mars Antenna' has been undergoing renovations this week to improve its accuracy.

The Mars Antenna needs to be measured with lasers to ensure flatness so that it can operate more efficiently.

This is the first time that engineers have changes the hydrostatic bearing assembly, a vital part which, which enables the antenna to rotate horizontally.  To do this they have had to lift the entire structure of the giant antenna.

more here: http://www.nasa.gov/topics/technology/features/dsn20100714.html

Getting to Mars, 23rd Jul 2010