Question

though its onboard laboratory allowed it to analyze rock samples on - site, the 2011 mars curiosity rover was unable to preserve samples for future analysis. — when creating the 2020 mars perseverance rover, robotics technologist yumi iwashita and other members of nasas jet propulsion laboratory sought to implement a mechanism that could do exactly that. which choice completes the text with the most logical transition? a specifically, b earlier, c hence, d similarly,

Explanation:

The text describes a situation where the 2011 Mars Curiosity rover couldn't preserve samples for future analysis. Then it mentions that members of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory sought to implement a mechanism for the 2020 Mars rover. The word "Similarly" (D) is appropriate as it indicates a parallel situation - both rovers dealing with sample - related (preservation for future analysis) tasks. "Earlier" (B) would imply a time sequence that's not the main focus here. "Hence" (C) implies a cause - effect which isn't the case. "Specifically" (A) is too narrow in indicating a detailed elaboration which isn't the transition needed.

Answer:

D. Similarly