http://spaceref.com/mars/mars-science-laboratory-lands-on-mars.html256 x 256 pixel, higher-def thumbnail, ripped from the stream:
In any case, machines have better capaiblities than a man in a space suit. Time is too limited for people on EVA. Whereas a machine is on 24/7 eva..!
Vertical touchdown velocity was -0.6739 m/s while the horizontal velocity was 0.044365 m/s.what was the touchdown velocity? I missed it..
Forget the landing, hearing a NASA tech yell "HOLY ****" made staying up to watch this 100% worth it.