That rang a bell, Robert. I just saw this one earlier today (you may have seen it).

Researchers Create Robotic "Bugs" To Explore Mars
bionic bots will rule new worlds
Rolla - Jan 14, 2002

Insect-like robots may one day swarm over the surface of Mars, helping scientists better study the planet, says a University of Missouri-Rolla researcher developing this new breed of robots

Space Daily

---

One more on this topic:

Cryobot offers Nasa hope for exploring under ice

Nasa scientists have successfully tested a robot which could explore frozen planets by melting its way through surface ice.

(Could very well work on Martian polar ice.)

From: Ananova

Marcia