More contact science and a visit to Sandside Harbour

Curiosity is currently parked in front of an outcrop called “Sandside Harbour,” where it is investigating differences in the lighter and darker outcrop expressions. Today, the plan includes conducting contact science to look for variations in sedimentary structures and composition before moving on to the next outcrop.

The plan begins with Mastcam multispectral observations to characterize the different parts of the outcrop, as well as a unique fin of bedrock at “Joppa Shore.” Mastcam will also document nearby stratigraphy at “North Minch” and an interesting green rock called “Halkirk.” ChemCam will assess the chemistry of “Blackstones Bank” and “Essendy,” targets on the darker and lighter outcrops, respectively.

A large Mastcam mosaic will be created to document the “Sandside Harbour” outcrop. The main focus of the plan is to use the DRT, MAHLI, and APXS to characterize the darker outcrop for comparison with previous measurements on the lighter outcrop.

The priority for the day is to conduct measurements on “East Shetland” and “Essendy.” The team will also monitor the atmosphere with a suprahorizon movie and dust devil survey on the second sol. After conducting these activities, Curiosity will drive west to another outcrop where post-drive imaging will be done to prepare for more contact science on Monday.

Curiosity will wake up early on Sol 2474 for additional environmental monitoring activities. The planning was conducted by the SOWG Chair and was shortened to two sols due to a soliday on Saturday. The soliday is being used to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing and to appreciate the early explorers who paved the way for current planetary exploration efforts.