Curiosity’s current mission is to investigate differences in the lighter and darker expressions of an outcrop called “Sandside Harbour.” The plan for the day includes conducting contact science to look for variations in sedimentary structures and composition.
The team will start by using Mastcam multispectral observations to characterize the different parts of the outcrop, including a unique fin of bedrock at “Joppa Shore.” They will also document nearby stratigraphy at “North Minch” and an interesting green rock called “Halkirk.” ChemCam will assess the chemistry of “Blackstones Bank” and “Essendy,” targets on the darker and lighter outcrops, respectively.
The main focus of the plan is to use the DRT, MAHLI, and APXS to characterize the darker outcrop for comparison with previous measurements on the lighter outcrop. A large Mastcam mosaic will be created to document the “Sandside Harbour” outcrop.
On Sol 2474, Curiosity will wake up early for additional environmental monitoring activities. The planning was conducted by the SOWG Chair and was shortened to two sols due to a soliday on Saturday. The soliday is being used to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing and to appreciate the early explorers who paved the way for current planetary exploration efforts. After conducting these activities, Curiosity will drive west to another outcrop where post-drive imaging will be done to prepare for more contact science on Monday.
