NASA launch of Mars rover Perseverance delayed due to 'contamination' - CNET

The Mars Perseverance rover and the Ingenuity helicopter tucked into its belly are mostly ready to fly to Mars, but some technical issues means they will have to wait a little longer.

The rover launch was originally set for July 17 before it was rescheduled for July 20.

NASA expanded on the issue, saying, "Additional time was needed to resolve a contamination concern in the ground support lines in NASA's Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF)." NASA also released a photo of the packed-up rover at PHSF where it is getting tucked into the fairings that will protect it during launch.

If NASA isn't able to send the rover off in time, it will have to wait until 2022 for its next chance due to the position of Earth in relation to Mars. .