NASA identifies cause of Ingenuity helicopter crash on Mars

NASA has identified the likely cause of the Ingenuity helicopter's crash on Mars. The helicopter's navigation sensors struggled to detect features on the smooth surface, leading to a horizontal landing that caused it to tumble and break its blades. Engineers from NASA and AeroVironment conducted a forensic analysis of the crash. They found that during its final flight, Ingenuity was in an area with few visual cues, making it difficult for the navigation system to function properly. Following this investigation, NASA is beginning to plan for potential follow-on missions. The insights gained from Ingenuity's experience may inform future aerial exploration on Mars.