He likened it to Sojourner, NASA’s first Mars rover, which was about the size of a microwave oven and trundled around Mars in 1997. “That said, ‘Hey, mobile exploration on another planet is not only possible, but adds a lot of value to how you do things,’” Mr. Lavery said.

For its trip to Mars, the helicopter will be packed on the underside of the rover. After the rover lands, the helicopter will be placed on the ground. The rover will then drive 50 to 100 yards away — close enough to stay in radio contact, far enough to not be endangered by any mishaps.

The helicopter is to make five short flights over 30 days. The first will go up about 10 feet and hover for 30 seconds. Later flights will be more ambitious, up to 90 seconds, and cover a few hundred yards. The helicopter will carry two cameras, one looking down and one pointed ahead. Between flights, a solar panel will recharge its batteries.