The new LEGO NASA Mars Rover Perseverance (42158)

Introducing the Lego Technic NASA Mars Rover Perseverance, the latest addition to the space-themed Lego sets. This remarkable model captures the essence of the real rover, complete with its groundbreaking features such as 360-degree steering and the Ingenuity Mars helicopter.

Unveiled on May 23, the Lego Technic Mars Rover Perseverance set is a double delight for space enthusiasts. Not only does it faithfully replicate the most recent US robotic explorer to roam the Martian surface, but it also includes a miniature version of its airborne companion, the Ingenuity Mars helicopter. This Technic set, consisting of 1,132 intricately designed pieces, offers a more advanced building experience and will be available for purchase on August 1 for $99.99 (£84.99 or €89.99) through Lego stores and the company’s website.

The LEGO designer, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying:

Working on this model has been both challenging and exciting. I’ve always felt passionate about space, and the design process let me explore my interest as I recreated the incredible engineering developed by the pioneering team at NASA. – Luke Cragin

Drawing inspiration from the Mars 2020 Mission rover, which touched down in the Jezero crater on February 18, 2021, the Lego Technic Perseverance provides builders aged 10 and above with a hands-on opportunity to delve into the engineering marvels that enable the six-wheeled rover to conduct thorough investigations of the red planet. The real Perseverance rover’s primary objectives include searching for signs of ancient life and collecting soil samples for future missions to bring back to Earth.

Just like its real-life counterpart, the Lego Technic Perseverance boasts impressive features. It features 360-degree steering, a fully articulated suspension system that allows it to traverse uneven terrains using all six wheels, and a movable robotic arm. Accompanying the rover is the Lego Technic replica of the Ingenuity helicopter, which made history as the first vehicle to achieve powered flight on a celestial body other than Earth. In its role as a pathfinder, Ingenuity has completed over 50 flights, aiding Perseverance in mapping out its course by scouting ahead.

“We hope the model’s features and functions will help introduce young space lovers to the world of engineering and encourage them to reach for the stars in the future,” – added Cragin.

It’s worth noting that the Lego Technic versions of Perseverance and Ingenuity are not motorized or capable of actual flight. However, this doesn’t limit the experience to static models. Through an app called “Technic AR,” builders can engage with the rover and helicopter in both physical and digital augmented reality. The app provides educational content about the real-life vehicles and their mission on Mars. Additionally, users can access real-time Martian weather updates and learn more about the Martian environment as the actual Perseverance rover continues its mission.

The Lego Technic NASA Mars Rover Perseverance represents only the second space-themed Lego Technic set, following the release of the space shuttle in 1996. While Perseverance holds the spotlight, it’s not the first Mars rover to receive the Lego treatment.

Previous Lego sets included the Mars Exploration Rover and Mission to Mars sets, produced in collaboration with the Discovery Channel in 2003, as well as the Lego Ideas NASA Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity Rover, introduced in 2014. These Lego models have continued to inspire young minds and foster an interest in engineering and space exploration.