Curiosity Rover is currently investigating an alteration zone around a fracture on Mars. The plan for today is focused on what the team calls a “mini-start hole.” This involves drilling a small test hole before committing to a full drill hole to ensure safety. The target for drilling, named “Pilgrim,” was selected and is located in the middle of a Mastcam image. In addition to drilling, today’s plan includes MAHLI imaging of “Pilgrim” both before and after the drilling process. The team will also place the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) over the target for analysis overnight. Measurements will also be taken by the Dynamic Albedo of Neutrons (DAN), Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD), and Rover Environmental Monitoring Station (REMS). Despite constraints on data volume and power, the team has put together a comprehensive plan for the day.
The plan for tomorrow includes a science block that will allow the team to further characterize the target with both the Mastcam and ChemCam instruments. As the Geology Science Theme Lead (GSTL) for tomorrow, there is excitement about the potential findings from the upcoming activities. The team will continue to explore and gather valuable data to further our understanding of the Martian environment.