NASA to launch Mars Science Laboratory

WASHINGTON (AFP) - US space agency NASA said Friday it still plans to launch an ambitious mission to Mars late next year despite technical hurdles and budget difficulties.

The mission aims to send a car-sized robotic rover, called the Mars Science Laboratory, to the red plant. Powered by a nuclear battery, it would be able to roam across the Martian landscape.

“A lot of hardware has been delivered, but there are still some hardware deliveries that are outstanding,” said Doug McCuistion, director of Mars exploration at NASA during a conference call with reporters.