Currently, NASA is looking into a way of studying Mars using a stationary piece of equipment. The InSight works by using a seismometer called SEIS (Seismic Experiment for Interior Structure), to measure seismic waves that occur on the planet. Its ability to detect quakes and meteor strikes anywhere means that it doesn't matter where InSight is landed since it will gather the same data anywhere on the planet.
In order for the InSight to function, it needs to be isolated from excess noise. This is because of how sensitive the device needs to be in order to detect seismic waves across the planet. In order to solve this problem, engineers at NASA designed a shield to protect the seismometer from the elements.
The InSight is important because it allows us to learn more about Mars from a stationary device than rovers ever let us. This addresses the possibility of rover turning over. In addition to this, InSight is capable of detecting seismic activity before the effects become known. This can help with the planning of future trips to Mars and making sure landings aren't done in places an earthquake could occur.
Much like the InSight required the shield to protect its fragile components, our contraption for the JPL competition requires protection for many of its components. To soften the blow of the pipe when it becomes vertical we've added padding to the wooden stopper. Now we need to secure the loops that encircle the pipe so that it can be used reliably multiple times.
https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?feature=7266
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