Curiosity rover takes first short spin around Mars - Businessweek

After an action-packed landing that delicately lowered it to the surface with nylon cables, Curiosity has entered a slow streak. Since the car-size rover is the most sophisticated spacecraft sent to Mars, engineers have taken their time to make sure it's in tiptop shape and that its high-tech tools work before it delves into its mission.Before Curiosity journeys toward the mountain, it will take a detour to an intriguing spot 1,300 feet away where it will drill into bedrock. With the test drive out of the way, Curiosity was expected to stay at its new position for several days before making its first big drive â€" a trip that will take as long as a month and a half.<br />http://www.businessweek.com/ap/2012-08-22/mars-rover-curiosity-prepares-for-test-drive