Mars Rover Uncovers Bright Outcrops, Plans Dump Sample Analysis

On Sol 1249, the rover successfully reached an area with a multitude of bright bedrock outcrops. Among these outcrops, a particularly large one situated on the left side of the image above was identified as the target for dumping a sand sample and further analysis over the weekend. Before this, the rover will execute ChemCam and Mastcam observations on a bedrock target named “Kuiseb.”

Following these observations, the rover will retract slightly to the left and then drive forward in order to position the large outcrop within reach of its robotic arm. Once in place, a series of images will be captured to assist in selecting dump and contact science targets for tomorrow.

It is important to note that the dates of planned rover activities mentioned in these reports are subject to change due to various factors related to the Martian environment, communication relays, and the status of the rover itself. By Ken Herkenhoff.