Curiosity – the rover being directed by scientists including Dr John Bridges from the University of Leicester, may have found evidence of life.
An image has been released by NASA, who now believe, after analysing rock samples, that Mars could have once supported living microbes.
Dr John Bridges, from the University of Leicester is one of two UK participating scientists on the mission.
Experts at the National Space Centre in Leicester have been watching with interest tonight as a US millionaire announced ambitious plans to send a couple on a trip to Mars.
Dennis Tito, a former rocket scientist says his Mission For America aims to spur a new era of space exploration.
Anu Ojha from the National Space Centre, said he was excited by the 'audacious' plan but there were big questions to ask about its funding.
The Curiosity rover is the largest and most advanced spacecraft ever sent to another planet. Dr John Bridges from the University of Leicester is leading a team of scientists working on the project.
More photographs are available on the Mars Curiosity website.
The Curiosity rover which landed on the surface of Mars on Monday is beaming back images of the planet.
Dr John Bridges from the University of Leicester is leading a team of scientists working on the project.