Drop-off of CheMin Samples and SAM Analysis

Activities on Sol 1651 went smoothly, allowing for a focus on dropping off the fine-grained sample OG1 to CheMin and conducting SAM analysis. The plan began with Mastcam multispectral imaging of the right and left wheel scuffs, along with Mastcam change detection imaging. ChemCam then investigated various locations like “Tumbledown Mountain,” “Elephant Mountain,” and “Canoe Point” to analyze the composition of sand in different parts of the left wheel scuff.

Navcam also played a role by capturing an image to assess the dust loading within the crater from a line-of-sight perspective. In the afternoon, part of the OG1 sample was delivered to CheMin for further analysis. Curiosity remained busy overnight with a SAM solid sample evolved gas experiment to study the fine-grained portion of OG1.

While I was occupied with operations for the Opportunity rover on the other side of the planet, it was exciting to see members of both rover teams collaborating during telecons to plan numerous scientific activities for our dedicated robots. The coordination and teamwork between the teams are crucial for ensuring the success of the missions.