NASA tests lunar rover in California desert

A BLM-managed area in the Southern California desert is helping NASA test a lunar lander. 

According to a report in Imperial Valley Press, "The work supports NASA’s efforts to develop more capable autonomous systems for future lunar missions." The field test followed collaboration between BLM staff and the project team from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. 

The Plaster City Open Area closely replicates the terrain found on Mars, with sparse vegetation, uneven terrain and natural obstacles. "Using a detailed pre-programmed map overlay and navigation targets, the rover chose its own routes, avoided obstacles and natural resources to minimize impacts, and evaluated the surrounding terrain."