Exploring Mars with Diana Trujillo

Who is Diana Trujillo and what is her role?

• Diana Trujillo is a software developer at Google.

• Diana Trujillo is a biologist studying marine life.

• Diana Trujillo is an aerospace engineer at NASA, specializing in robotic exploration.

• Diana Trujillo is an astronaut preparing for a mission to Mars.

What is the Mars Science Lab?

• A lunar lander designed for missions to the Moon.

• A robotic spacecraft sent to study Jupiter.

• The Mars Science Lab is a NASA mission that includes the Curiosity rover, designed to explore Mars.

• A satellite orbiting Earth for climate research.

Describe one challenge Diana faced while working on the Mars mission.

• Managing a budget for the mission.

• Coordinating with a diverse team across different time zones.

• Conducting experiments on Earth.

• Designing the spacecraft's exterior.

What inspired Diana to become an engineer?

• Diana decided to become an engineer after reading a novel.

• Diana was inspired by her fascination with problem-solving and encouragement from a mentor.

• Diana was inspired by her love for painting.

• Diana was motivated by her interest in cooking.

How does the Mars Science Lab help scientists learn about Mars?

• The Mars Science Lab helps scientists learn about Mars by analyzing soil, rocks, and atmosphere to understand its geology and potential for past life.

• It provides real-time video feeds of Mars' surface to the public.

• The Mars Science Lab only focuses on studying the moons of Mars.

• It helps scientists by sending humans to Mars for direct observation.

What was one of the key technologies used in the Mars Science Lab?

• Rover navigation system

• Sample collection arm

• Solar panel energy system

• Entry, descent, and landing (EDL) system with sky crane maneuver

Explain how teamwork played a role in the Mars mission.

• The Mars mission was completed by a single individual.

• Teamwork was not necessary for the Mars mission.

• Teamwork hindered progress during the Mars mission.

• Teamwork was crucial in the Mars mission as it brought together diverse expertise and facilitated problem-solving.

What educational background did Diana Trujillo have?

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

• Aerospace engineering degree from the University of Maryland.

• PhD in Astrophysics

Name one achievement of the Mars Science Lab.

• Successful landing of the Curiosity rover on Mars in 2012.

• Discovery of water on Mars in 2015.

• Launch of the Perseverance rover in 2020.

• First images of Mars taken by Hubble Space Telescope.

How did Diana's childhood influence her career choices?

• Diana's childhood experiences of family turmoil and empathy influenced her to pursue a career in humanitarian work and advocacy.

• Diana's early interest in science pushed her towards a career in medicine and research.

• Diana's love for sports inspired her to become a professional athlete.

• Diana's childhood was filled with luxury and privilege, leading her to a career in fashion design.