NASA to launch new Mars mission in California

NASA's Insight mission to Mars will launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California on May 5. The launch will be visible to 10 million Californians. The Lander, protected by an aeroshell, will travel for six months to Mars. Upon reaching the atmosphere, it will descend for six minutes, shedding its heat shield and deploying a parachute. Once landed, the Insight Lander will remain stationary to probe the Martian surface and analyze soil samples.

What is the launch date of NASA's mission to Mars?

How many Californians does NASA estimate will be able to see the launch?

How long will the lander travel before reaching Mars?

What will happen to the spacecraft once it is close to the Martian atmosphere?

What will NASA use the inside lander for on Mars?