Curiosity Takes a Break for Detailed Science Studies on Mars: Completes 19-meter Drive and Resumes Driving Through Marias Pass

Curiosity recently completed a successful 19-meter drive on Sol 1067 and is now back at Missoula for more focused science studies. The objective of the three-sol plan is to perform a detailed analysis of the Stimson-Pahrump contact and determine the relative timing of the veins observed there.

On Sol 1068, Curiosity will acquire ChemCam LIBS on four different “Missoula” targets (Missoula A, B, C, and D) to study the chemistry across the contact. Several Mastcam images will be taken to document these targets. Additionally, on Sol 1070, ChemCam will make a passive observation on the target “Coombs” and conduct a regular LIBS observation on the target “Stenerson.” Environmental monitoring activities will also be conducted over the weekend to assess atmospheric opacity and search for dust devils.

After completing ChemCam analyses, Curiosity will resume driving through Marias Pass on Sol 1070 and take post-drive imaging to prepare for science activities next week. Lauren Edgar, a Research Geologist at the USGS Astrogeology Science Center and member of the MSL science team, provided this update. It’s important to note that planned rover activities are subject to change based on factors such as Martian environment, communication relays, and rover status.