Build the twin rovers that rewrote the history of Mars.
NASA’s Spirit and Opportunity rovers launched separately in 2003 and landed on opposite sides of Mars three weeks apart in January 2004. Designed for missions lasting just 90 Martian days, these remarkable robotic geologists continued exploring for years beyond anyone’s expectations.
Spirit operated for more than six years, traveling 4.8 miles (7.7 kilometers) across Gusev Crater before its final communication on March 22, 2010. Opportunity explored the Meridiani Planum region for nearly 15 years and covered more than 28 miles (45 kilometers)—the first vehicle to travel farther than a marathon on another world. Its final signal reached Earth on June 10, 2018, as a planet-wide dust storm darkened the solar-powered rover’s location.
Together, the twin rovers discovered compelling geological evidence that ancient Mars once had wet environments that may have been favorable for microbial life. This detailed Metal Earth 3D Model Kit recreates the distinctive rover design shared by both explorers, including its solar panels, camera mast, six wheels, and scientific instrument arm.
Model Specifications:
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Item Number: MMS077
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Difficulty Level: Challenging
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Number of Sheets: 2 Sheets
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Assembled Size: 3.7" L x 3.39" W x 2.36" H (9.4 x 8.6 x 6 cm)
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Ages: 14+
🛠️ Download the Official Assembly Instructions (PDF)
🔭 From the Desk of Paul Bracken:
"Spirit and Opportunity are two of the greatest overachievers in the history of space exploration. Each rover was expected to operate for only 90 Martian days, yet Spirit kept going for more than six years and Opportunity explored for nearly 15. This challenging little model captures an impressive amount of detail, right down to the solar panels, camera mast, and six-wheel suspension. Take your time, use fine tweezers or small needle-nose pliers, and enjoy building a tribute to two robotic explorers that completely changed our understanding of Mars."
