中文摘要：

“火星科学实验室”（Mars Science Laboratory，MSL）是NASA于2011年11月26日发射的火星探测器，其上的好奇心号（Curiosity）巡视器已经于2012年8月6日着陆火星；其主要科学目标包括研究火星存在生命的可能性、火星气候特征、火星地质过程，并为将来的载人着陆作准备；经过多次论证，其着陆区为盖尔撞击坑（Gale Crater）。与过去的火星巡视器相比，它携带了更加先进的科学仪器，能够精确分析采集样品的化学成分、光谱特征等；在科学工作小组的指导下，其运行模式包括行走、勘查、接近目标、接触目标与样品分析；通过上述工作，“火星科学实验室”将对火星生命及可居住性进行全面探测。

英文摘要：

Mars Science Laboratory （MSL or Curiosity） is the Mars rover launched by NASA on November 26, 2011 and landed Mars on August 6, 2012. The principal scientific goals include studying the probability of the existence of life on Mars, the characteristics of Mars climate, the geological processes related with the habitability, and the preparation for future manned mis- sions. Gale crater is selected as the landing site after extensive studies and comparisons. Com- pared with the past Mars rovers, MSL carries much more advanced scientific payloads, which enable more accurate analysis of the collected samples; composition and spectrum, etc. The operation modes include traverse, reconnaissance, approaching and contacting targets, and sample analysis. Through surface operation and investigation, MSL wilt comprehensively explore the possible existence of life and habitability of Mars.