In the vast expanse where dreams take flight,

A tale unfolds of courage and might.

Mars, the distant red planet's embrace,

Witnesses a duo, bound by space.



In the history of the cosmos, their story engraved,

Perseverance and Ingenuity, bold and brave.

Their legacy echoes, inspiring the souls,

To reach for the stars, to achieve their goals.



Perseverance, a wanderer on alien soil,

Unraveling mysteries, with unyielding toil.

Its robotic arm, a gentle touch bestowed,

Collecting samples, where the martian past’s secrets flowed.



But lo, a companion, the aerial acrobat of the skies,

Above rusty landscapes, it defied the ties.

A helicopter, a pioneer's grace,

Defying gravity, in an extraterrestrial space.



Across the crimson dunes, they fly and rove,

Martian exploration, endlessly strove.

Earth watched in wonder, hearts filled with pride,

As these brave emissaries explore Jezero and beyond far and wide.



Together they push boundaries, hand in hand,

Humanity's spirit, echoing across the sand.

For in their union, a message resounds clear,

That dreams and determination can conquer all fear.



Their mission began at the Octavia E. Butler Landing Site.

Wright Brothers Field where Ingenuity first took flight.

Séítah, Máaz, Tenby, Mandu Wall and others explored,

Collecting samples, ten cached at Three Forks, the rest remain aboard.



Everyday they dance, a cosmic ballet,

Mars2020's legacy, in a celestial display.

Ingenuity's blades whisper secrets unknown,

As Perseverance roams, etching paths above the stone.



Their tireless endeavors, a testament true,

To the boundless potential, within me and you.

For as we gaze upon the butterscotch skies above,

We're reminded of resilience, courage, and love.



So let the spirit of Perseverance forever thrive,

In the hearts of dreamers, who dare to strive.

And may Ingenuity's wings inspire us to be,

Explorers of the unknown, seekers of destiny.



For in the grand tapestry of the cosmos above,

Mars2020's legacy, a testament of our love.

To unravel the universe, one discovery at a time,

Together we'll soar, with passion so sublime.



Nicolas Randazzo, Postdoctoral Scientist, University of Alberta




Source: An Ode to Perseverance and Ingenuity