NASA is marking the 13th anniversary of the Curiosity rover’s landing in Mars’ Gale Crater by loading the six-wheeled robot with new software that lets it combine tasks and put itself to sleep when work is finished, conserving the dwindling power generated by its plutonium-fueled multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator. The upgrade, developed by engineers at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, allows Curiosity to transmit data to an orbiter while driving or operating its robotic arm—activities that previously ran sequentially. "It’s as if our teenage rover is maturing, and we’re trusting it to take on more responsibility," said flight-systems engineer Reidar Larsen, adding that trimming even 10–20 minutes from daily operations can extend the mission’s life. Curiosity has logged more than 22 miles (35 kilometers) since landing on 5 August 2012, uncovering evidence of ancient lakes, organic molecules and episodic methane releases. Recent images show a two-inch coral-shaped rock dubbed “Paposo” and extensive boxwork formations on the lower slopes of Mount Sharp, features scientists hope will shed light on whether subsurface habitats once supported microbial life. Despite worn wheels and slowing power output, mission managers say the rover remains in good health. The enhanced autonomy is expected to keep Curiosity collecting geological and climate data well beyond its original two-year design life, providing fresh insight into how Mars transitioned from a wetter world to the cold desert seen today.