Here’s How Many NASA Rovers Have Landed on Mars (And How Many Are Still Rolling)

NASA has successfully landed five rovers on Mars over the past three decades, with two still operational as of 2026. The first, Sojourner, touched down in 1997 as part of the Pathfinder mission, a toaster-sized six-wheeler that operated for 83 days, capturing 550 images and analyzing Martian rocks and atmospheric conditions.

It provided early evidence that Mars once had water and higher surface temperatures. In 2004, Spirit and Opportunity landed on opposite sides of the planet, each weighing 374 pounds and equipped with advanced tools.

Spirit ceased operations in 2010, while Opportunity lasted until 2018, both uncovering signs of past water and potential habitability. The larger Curiosity, launched in 2011 and active since 2012, is the size of a Mini Cooper with 20-inch wheels.

It detected organic carbon at Mount Sharp in Gale Crater, the strongest evidence yet of past microscopic life, though it also confirmed dangerous radiation levels on the surface. Perseverance, NASA’s most advanced rover to date, landed in 2021 as part of the Mars 2020 mission.

It’s testing oxygen extraction from Mars’ carbon-dioxide-rich atmosphere, a critical step for future human missions. Despite harsh conditions—radiation, dust, and rugged terrain—these rovers have reshaped our understanding of Mars, proving the planet was once more Earth-like and potentially capable of supporting life. Their legacy continues to pave the way for eventual human exploration.