New Bedrock Exposures Discovered on Mars: A Touch-and-Go Success Story

On Sol 2658, the mission on Mars was a success, as new bedrock exposures were uncovered for exploration. The main objective for the day is to gather high-quality chemical and remote sensing data in this area before moving uphill to the south.

A plan has been developed for a “touch-and-go” sol, starting with an APXS integration on a bedrock slab known as “Marchmont.” Following this, MAHLI will capture images of Marchmont and the arm will be repositioned for ChemCam observations of Marchmont and “Inverness Shire,” a darker block on the bedrock surface. Additional images will be taken by the Right Mastcam of the ChemCam targets and “Whitelaw Moss,” another section of bedrock. Mastcam will also create a 13×3 stereo mosaic of the west side of Tower Butte to examine its sedimentary structures.

After completing a 23-meter drive, ChemCam will use AEGIS to autonomously select a new bedrock target at its current location. To end the day, MARDI will capture an image during twilight. The tactical planning team executed the plan flawlessly, resulting in a smooth day for the SOWG Chair.