Curiosity Embarks on Detailed Study of Stimson-Pahrump Contact on Mars with ChemCam Analysis and Environmental Monitoring

Curiosity completed a successful 19-m drive on Sol 1067 and is now back at Missoula to conduct targeted science. The rover’s main goal is to study the Stimson-Pahrump contact in detail and determine the relative timing of some of the observed veins.

Over the next three sols, ChemCam analyses will be packed into a busy schedule. On Sol 1068, ChemCam LIBS will analyze four different “Missoula” targets (Missoula A, B, C, and D) to better understand the chemistry at the contact. Mastcam images will also be taken to document these targets.

On Sol 1070, Curiosity will perform a ChemCam passive observation on the target “Coombs” and a regular ChemCam LIBS observation on the target “Stenerson.” Environmental monitoring activities will also be conducted over the weekend to check the opacity of the atmosphere and search for dust devils. After completing its investigations with ChemCam, Curiosity will resume its drive through Marias Pass on Sol 1070 and capture post-drive images in preparation for science activities next week.

Lauren Edgar, a Research Geologist at USGS Astrogeology Science Center and member of MSL’s science team, provided this update. Please note that due to various factors related to Martian environment, communication relays, and rover status, dates mentioned in these reports are subject to change.