NASA astronaut Scott Kelly shared his inspirational story of a year-long journey in orbit and how it will lead to future missions to Mars.

  • Scott Kelly speaks at 'Summer of Mars' event
  • He spent year-long mission in space
  • Mars rover concept vehicle unveiled

Kelly spoke Monday as part of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex kickoff of "Summer of Mars," showcasing activities that focus on future space travel and missions to the Red Planet.

From March 2015 to March 2016, Kelly called the International Space Station home as part of the year-long mission in space.

That's more than 5,400 Earth orbits to learn about the long-term affects of space travel on people.

"It's about pacing yourself, getting the appropriate amount of rest, and keeping it into perspective that you will eventually get home," Kelly said.

Several hundreds patrons listened to the famed astronaut's story of perseverance from poor student to commander of a space shuttle and even the ISS.

And with the future in mind, the attraction unveiled its Mars rover concept vehicle, designed with the expertise of NASA scientists.


Scott Kelly took more than 5,400 Earth orbits during his mission in space. (Greg Pallone, staff)

 

Perhaps ones like it will navigate the alien terrain of that world in the coming decades.

For Kelly, he is optimistic that astronauts who follow him will one day pay Mars a visit.

"We will accomplish what we want to accomplish and can appropriately fund. The question is, 'What is that?'" he said.

Kelly retired from NASA in April 2016.

The Mars rover concept vehicle will start touring the East Coast in July. Guests to Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex will get to check it out through June.