Curiosity’s successful 19-meter run on Sol 1067 has brought it back to Missoula for targeted science. The objective of this mission is to study the Stimson-Pahrump contact and determine the relative timing of the veins observed there. The three-salt plan is currently in full swing, with a focus on ChemCam analyses.
On Sol 1068, ChemCam LIBS will be acquired on four different “Missula” targets (Missula A, B, C, and D) to understand the chemistry of the contact. Several Mastcam images will also be taken to document these targets. On Sol 1070, ChemCam passive observations will be performed on the Combs target and regular ChemCam LIBS observations on the Stenerson target.
During the weekend, environmental monitoring activities will be carried out to assess the opacity of the atmosphere and look for dust devils. After thoroughly investigating the discovery with ChemCam, Curiosity will continue its drive through Marias Pass on Sol 1070 and take post-drive imaging to prepare for next week’s science activities.
Lauren Edgar, a research geologist at the USGS Astrogeology Science Center and a member of the MSL science team, provided this update. Note that planned rover activities are subject to change based on factors such as the Martian environment, communications relays, and rover status.