NASA eClips

Learn all about the optical telescopes on the summit of Mauna Kea in Hawaii. Find out why astronomers prefer the thin atmosphere found here and compare Earth-based telescopes to space telescopes like Hubble. Learn about the challenges of exploring the surface of Mars. Find out how NASA uses science and math to successfully design the type of vehicle needed for specific missions. See why scientists refer to entry, descent and landing as "seven minutes of terror."