NASA’s Curiosity rover, currently in its 14th year of operation on Mars, has documented a series of geological features that differ from previously observed formations. During recent operations, the rover encountered broad, shallow pits scattered across the bedrock. Unlike typical pits formed by the weathering of nodules or pebbles, these new formations lack associated debris, presenting a new area of study for the mission's science team.

To investigate these structures, the rover utilized its MAHLI and Mastcam instruments to capture stereo mosaics and high-resolution imagery. These data sets are intended to assist researchers in creating digital elevation models to better understand the geological history of this specific region of Mount Sharp.

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The mission also focused on analyzing complex, layered bedrock that suggests variations in historical depositional conditions. Instruments including ChemCam, MAHLI, and APXS were deployed to examine resistant, gray-toned layers that appear chemically distinct from the surrounding rock. Additionally, the rover conducted remote observations of distant buttes, including "Cordillera," "Tolhuaca," and "Potosí," to assess mineralogy and potential crossbedding.

Beyond geological analysis, the rover's environmental team increased the frequency of atmospheric monitoring using REMS, Mastcam, and Navcam to track a regional dust storm. Observations by the end of the week indicated that the storm was beginning to dissipate. These activities were successfully completed despite a temporary interruption in mission planning caused by a lost downlink.

Source: NASA