Curiosity rover video reveals six years of wheel damage on Mars
Updated
Updated · Space.com · May 7
Curiosity rover video reveals six years of wheel damage on Mars
7 articles · Updated · Space.com · May 7
NASA said the two-minute time-lapse stitches images from 2020 to 2026, showing the rover’s aluminum wheels crossing Gale Crater and Mount Sharp terrain.
Scientists are using the footage to track sand shifting on Curiosity’s deck, separating movement caused by driving from wind-driven changes to study seasonal atmospheric patterns.
Curiosity has travelled more than 20 miles since landing in 2012; despite punctures and tears, it remains mobile, and lessons from its wear helped shape Perseverance’s stronger wheel design.
Curiosity survived 14 years with shredded wheels. How is its successor using AI to master the same treacherous Martian terrain?
Mars has lightning and had ancient, Earth-like sandstorms. What do these violent weather discoveries mean for finding life and sending humans there?
With DNA-like molecules now found on Mars, what is the next critical step in proving ancient life once existed there?
Managing Severe Wheel Degradation on NASA’s Curiosity Rover After 4,400 Days on Mars
Overview
By May 2026, NASA's Curiosity rover had traveled over 32 kilometers on Mars, but its six thin aluminum wheels suffered severe damage, especially the middle-right one, due to harsh terrain, suspension stress, and possible corrosion. In response, NASA formed a specialized team that developed mitigation strategies like a traction control algorithm, backward driving, and careful route planning. These efforts reduced wheel stress and slowed damage, allowing Curiosity to remain operational and reach key scientific targets despite slower speeds and limited paths. The mission's experience has directly influenced the design and operation of future rovers, emphasizing stronger wheels, better testing, and integrated driving strategies to balance durability and exploration goals.