Article: This droid's a photographer, and scientists are ready for it to explore.(Originated from Knight-Ridder Newspapers)

PASADENA, Calif. _ If all goes according to plan, as people across the country are lighting the barbecue and watching bombs bursting in air, an unprecedented display of American creativity, initiative and spirit will blossom on another world.

There, on Mars, a 25-inch-long, 22-pound droid from Earth will inaugurate a new search for extraterrestrial life.

Why July 4th?

``We are in America. We are American citizens,'' NASA administrator Dan Goldin said Thursday. ``I think it's very, very appropriate that we celebrate the American Independence Day with a statement that America is still an exploring society.

``What a great day to ...

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