Now that Curiosity is puttering around on the surface of our sister planet, and we know that everything went off without a hitch, this HD animation of the mission from launch to exploration seems even more incredible than it did before. Then, it was in the realm of hope and possibility. Now, it’s mind-boggling science.

The video also gives a good idea of some of the astonishing analysis capabilities that this little emissary has.

Hats off to every single individual who played a part in making this possible, from the scientists and engineers to the folks that swept the stairs at night.