During a routine flight software update on Wednesday, we took a closer look at the local rocks using our proximity science instruments while the rover was parked. Although there were limited outcrops nearby, the team was able to survey some options within reach and decided to abrade a target called “Old Faithful Geyser.” This abrasion will provide us with a fresh and clean rock surface without any dust or rock coatings, allowing for a clearer analysis.
The team has been working diligently to understand the potential textural and compositional differences across the margin unit since the last abrasion at Bunsen Peak nearly 1 km to the east. By taking advantage of this opportunity to study the rocks in our immediate vicinity, we hope to gain a better understanding of the geological features and history of the area. The data collected from these measurements and analyses will help us piece together the puzzle of the Martian landscape and its formation.
