Exploring Mars: A Weekend of Science and Discovery on Sol 1961

This weekend, we decided to continue our exploration at the same location where we have been conducting research for a week. Although we were eager to discover new terrain, we still had many exciting science targets to keep us busy. On the first day of our weekend plan (Sol 1961), we had a packed science block that included several ChemCam observations. We took LIBS measurements on bedrock targets “Glenfinnan” and “Skara Brae,” captured a long-distance RMI image of the lower slopes of Mount Sharp, and took a passive measurement of “Bloodstone Hill.” In addition to these activities, we scheduled Mastcam images to document our LIBS targets and another Mastcam image for change detection. We also planned to take repeat Mastcam images of the same target area over multiple sols in order to monitor any changes or movements. Lastly, we aimed to capture a Navcam movie to observe dust devils in the area.

In the evening, we scheduled MAHLI nighttime images of Glenfinnan and Skara Brae in order to examine the small-scale features within the rocks. The dust that was cleared by our LIBS observations during the day would provide a clearer view of these features. The MAHLI image above shows Skara Brae rock target as an example. On Sol 1962, our second day of exploration, we planned to drive to our next VRR location and take post-drive images before preparing for an exciting week ahead full of contact and remote science activities.