NASA calling: Now, get a boarding pass to Mars in Chennai

CHENNAI: You have to wait for 999 days to get a US visa appointment, but you can get a 'boarding pass' to Mars if you visit the US Consulate in Chennai before the end of February 2023.
About 20 students from Loyola College were thrilled to get the passes on Thursday after visiting the 'Opportunity' Mars rover exhibition at the consulate.
They got to know why sunset on Mars is blue, why oil and water mix well in space and how the James Webb telescope captures images of the early universe. They also experienced a walk on martian terrain using virtual reality glasses.
On display was a replica of the rover that landed on Mars in 2004 (the mission was launched in 2003). The rover, developed by Cornell University students, has six wheels and a sample collection and analysis unit with cameras and solar panels.
"We are excited to get a boarding pass with our names. It is a rare opportunity to see the rover up close and know about Mars," said Joseph Crossfeer, a second-year student. Antony Abhishek, another student posed for pictures with a 3D printed image of an astronaut.
"The rover was originally a 90 martian days mission, but it went on for 14years. It travelled 45km on the martial surface," said Venkat Narayanaswamy from North Carolina State University and US Fullbright-Nehru scholar.
"Oppy's twin rover 'Spirit' functioned for six years and covered 8km. "Opportunity made several discoveries including evidence of water having existed on the planet."
"Through virtual reality, students can experience driving on Mars with the rover. We are also screening short films for different age groups of students," said Scott E Hartmann, cultural affairs officer, US Consulate General.
The exhibition will be open to the public from Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm.
Schools and colleges have to book slots in advance.
You can also get your 'boarding pass' here: www.mars.nasa.gov/participate/send-your-name/future