After conducting remote science activities, Curiosity will begin contact science on the Bilko Pinnacle target. This challenging target is too high and steep to be brushed, so MAHLI images will be taken from various angles to create high-quality 3D images of the rock. In addition to Bilko Pinnacle, a second contact science target, “Pipsqueak Spire,” will also be analyzed using 20cm and 5cm stereo pairs. Nighttime APXS observations are planned for both targets before the arm is stowed for the day. Following the completion of contact science activities, a CheMin analysis will be conducted on an internal calibration standard to monitor performance.
Curiosity’s Remote Science Expedition: A Thrilling Journey Up the Bilko Pinnacle and Down ‘Pipsqueak Spire’
