> "Curiosity doesn't have a dedicated computer [so it can autonomously navigate during one continuous drive]. Instead, it drives in segments, halting to process

> "Curiosity doesn't have a dedicated computer [so it can autonomously navigate during one continuous drive]. Instead, it drives in segments, halting to process imagery of the terrain after each segment... The new software will help the venerable rover process images faster" > "Curiosity's aluminum wheels... began showing signs of broken treads in 2013... sharp rocks were chipping away at the treads... The new software [introduces] two new mobility commands that reduce the amount of steering Curiosity needs to do while driving in an arc toward a specific waypoint." So the rover can cover more distance per unit time, with less tread wear per unit distance > "Those are just two of about 180 changes implemented" > "The software update will also enable them to upload software patches more easily than in past. And it will help engineers plan the motions of Curiosity's robotic arm more efficiently and point its "head" atop the mast more accurately."