In the meantime way out in the way out there …

From notable achievements and new discoveries to trials and tribulations and harbingers of hope, the Mars Exploration Rovers seemed to experience the gamut on the Red Planet this September, their 69th month on an expedition that originally set out back in 2004 for a three-month tour.

(Embedded Spirit Waits Exit Approval, Opportunity Celebrates New Mars Year with New Record, Planetary Society, 09/30/09)

I almost wanna sing the theme song from Gilligan’s Island.

By the way, for a really small ($25 … more if you choose) fee you can join the Planetary Society. You’ll not only get a really great magazine, but you’ll also join up with folks interested in doing … not just watching!

(As my daughter assures me)

Girls go to college to get knowledge.

Boys go to Jupiter to get stupider.

(Let me just add)

Robots go to Mars to be cars!