Today’s two-sol plan for the Curiosity rover on Mars involves targeted remote sensing and contact science at a location called “Koes.” This site was chosen as a good spot to conduct contact science on the Murray formation in the area. Unfortunately, there was not enough power or time to include contact science in the weekend plan, so it is a great opportunity to do so now.
The plan begins with ChemCam and Mastcam observations of both “Koes” and “Onawa” to gather data and characterize the Murray formation. Next, the rover will use its Dust Removal Tool (DRT) to brush off a fresh surface at the “Koes” site, followed by MAHLI imaging. Additionally, MAHLI will be used to take images of the rover wheels as part of its ongoing monitoring efforts. APXS will be placed on “Koes” for an overnight integration to gather further data.
A SAM preconditioning activity will also be carried out, which involves heating up a sample cup in preparation for solid sample analysis. The following day, Curiosity will wake up early to acquire a Mastcam mosaic of “Baynes Mountain” to document the contact point between the Murray and Stimson formations.
On Sol 1381, the rover will conduct another ChemCam observation of the Murray formation at “Khoabendus” and use Mastcam to characterize veins at the target known as “Helgas.” Additionally, Navcam will be used to monitor the atmosphere and search for dust devils in the area.