The United Arab Emirates launched a mission to Mars earlier this month, followed by China days later.

And tomorrow, NASA is scheduled to launch its own mission to the red planet that includes a six-wheeled rover called Perseverance, as well as a tiny helicopter. Short Wave reporter Emily Kwong talks with NPR’s Joe Palca, who explains why these launches are happening now and the goal of the missions when they get there.

Read more of Joe’s reporting on this story here.

Follow reporter Emily Kwong at @emilykwong1234. Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.

This episode was produced and fact-checked by Abby Wendle and edited by Viet Le.

Short Wave Podcast

It’s science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join host Maddie Sofia for science on a different wavelength.