Update on Curiosity’s Progress with Autonomous Navigation by USGS Scientist Ken Herkenhoff

The Sol 24 plan includes testing software that will help the rover avoid obstacles automatically. If successful, the rover will be able to drive further towards our goal, Glenelg. This location will provide a good view of the intersection of three different terrain types, allowing us to study the relationships between these geological units and interpret their history. To reach Glenelg quickly, we will need to use autonomous navigation capabilities that we are currently testing.

After the drive, there will be time for scientific observations, which were the main focus of the science team’s efforts. Despite being my last shift as SOWG Chair for a few weeks, today’s planning went more smoothly than yesterday. The main issue faced was the low data volume expected to be relayed by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter for planning Sol 25. This may not be enough data to plan another drive, but we hope to receive more data than anticipated.

If we do not receive at least one stereo pair of images of the terrain ahead of the rover after the drive, we may have to pause for a sol. While this would not be a problem, we are eager to reach Glenelg, which is about 400 meters away. Confirmation was received that all Mastcam characterization data has been collected, allowing us to plan new Mastcam observations. This was a relief to the science team, as incorporating this data into plans over the past week required careful consideration and planning.