NASA helps 'Angry Birds' go to Mars

WASHINGTON, Aug. 23 (UPI) -- NASA says it is joining forces with the makers of the popular "Angry Birds" game, this time helping the game's birds and pigs explore martian terrain.

Rovio Entertainment's update to "Angry Birds Space," which was supported through a partnership with NASA and introduced millions of gamers to concepts of microgravity, features the title birds along with a cast of NASA Mars rovers and landers, the space agency reported Thursday.

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

The game will include links to NASA Web content about Mars exploration and NASA missions that are represented in the game.

"We're huge NASA fans and we were all cheering the Mars Curiosity rover as it touched down," Peter Vesterbacka, chief marketing officer of Finland's Rovio, said.

"We're thrilled to continue working with NASA. Stay tuned for even more great fun and educational content coming up."