>The Mars rover Spirit is starting to show its age, and it's nearing the start of a long, cold winter. Now, its solar panels are covered with dust - compare the two images below:
>
>Clean: http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA03272
>Dusty: http://marsrovers.jpl.nasa.gov/gallery/press/spirit/20071210a/JC4-Sol1355A_1358A_DeckPan_L456atc_br2.jpg
>
>Despite their extended time in a very harsh environment, both rovers continue to function. Kudos to the engineers and scientists involved for a job very well done.


I've been following these regularly. As you say a remarkable engineering achievement. Maybe another dust devil can clean the solar panels as has happened before. Though I think Spirit maybe coming to the end of its life.