Angry Birds Space explores Mars with new update, now available

Angry Birds Space has received a new update that unlocks Mars. Paying tribute to the Curiosity Rover landing on Mars, Rovio has updated their space-themed bird-flinging game to include the fiery red planet.

The new episode, which adds 20 fiery levels and a new astronaut pig, is now available on iOS and Android devices, with other platforms coming soon.

The plot of this episode centers around the nefarious pigs hijacking the Curiosity Mars Rover to search for eggs. Throughout the 20 levels, players must dodge explosive volcanoes and fire asteroids. The update also challenges you to find three hidden rovers and landers to unlock special bonus levels.

"Rovio is teaching huge new audiences about NASA's missions to Mars thanks to this collaboration," said NASA's associate administrator for communications. "It's a great way to introduce both kids and adults to the wonders of the planet in a fun and entertaining way."

Last year, NASA participated with Rovio on Angry Birds Space under a Space Act Agreement to share excitement of space with the Angry Birds community and educate players about the agency's projects and programs.

"We're huge NASA fans, and we were all cheering the Mars Curiosity rover as it touched down. So, working together on the Mars update was a perfect fit," said Rovio's chief marketing officer Peter Vesterbacka. "We're thrilled to continue working with NASA. Stay tuned for even more great fun and educational content coming up."