I Love Scientists

Mars lander shakes loose usable soil sample.

The problem was overcome after the team activated a fine rasp-like drill inside the scoop and caused it to vibrate fast enough to shake the fine particles loose. The sand flowed through the strainer like salt from a salt shaker, Boynton said.

His colleagues broke out into cheers of relief and applause, while Boynton cranked up his laptop computer to play what he called "shake! shake! shake! music" - the song "(Shake, Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty" by KC and the Sunshine Band.