The Curiosity rover landed safely on Mars in a picture-perfect landing sequence. But really, the proof is in the pudding, and by pudding, I mean pictures. The pictures aren't just something to look at, but represent clear evidence that the rover's imaging and communication systems are in good shape. The ability to send the data that contains a photograph is step one of the Martian phase of this complex and fascinating mission.
So, it's probably fitting that the first image we got from the surface of Mars is our rover looking at its own shadow. We're there on the surface of the next planet out from the sun, staring at ourselves, marveling at the achievement.
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