Today, Representative Mike Garcia (CA-25) released a statement applauding the successful landing of NASA's Perseverance rover on Mars. The successful landing of a rover on Mars has only been achieved by the United States. Today’s landing marks the United States' sixth successful rover landing on Mars. Following today's landing, the rover will embark on its mission to gather scientific information from Mars.

“Today’s successful landing of the Perseverance rover on Mars marks a historic day in our nation’s history,” said Garcia. “It was an honor to be on the ground at NASA’s JPL to witness such a historic event and something that only the United States has ever achieved. Today’s landing is a reminder of what we can achieve when we come together. Perseverance will bring us a better understanding of Mars, and as a result, it will lead to space and science advancements here in the United States. We must continue to support and improve our nation’s space exploration, something that plays a pivotal role in our community here in southern California and also in our national security. I look forward to continuing to work to expand and improve our nation's space exploration while serving on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.”

Garcia watched the landing from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California. While there, he toured the facility and spoke with NASA officials about the landing.