On the upcoming three-day weekend, we are planning an extensive schedule to cover part of the long weekend. We will continue our plan by adding an additional three days tomorrow. Today, I had the responsibility of being the Geology Science Theme Lead, which presented quite a challenge in fitting everything into our schedule while staying within our power constraints.
On the first day, Curiosity will gather data using ChemCam and Mastcam on a small patch of sand to assess its composition and morphology. We will then drive further to the southwest and capture some Navcam images to prepare for future targeting. In addition, we will conduct the first change detection experiment to monitor sand movement in a small sandsheet.
The second day will involve environmental monitoring activities aimed at assessing the composition and opacity of the atmosphere using ChemCam and Mastcam. The morning of the third day will see us use Navcam to monitor the atmosphere and search for dust devils. In the afternoon, we will continue with our change detection experiment to look for ripple movement and acquire another Mastcam mosaic of the dune to study ripple morphology. We also plan on performing ChemCam calibration activities, a Mastcam mosaic of the local bedrock, a clast survey, and a Navcam atmospheric observation during this timeframe.
Throughout our schedule, REMS will be conducting observations to assess wind speeds as we monitor dunes. Additionally, CheMin will dump “Greenhorn” sample and analyze an empty cell in preparation for upcoming sampling after this busy holiday period. After all that hard work over this holiday season, Curiosity is sure to need some rest and recharge before continuing its mission on Mars!
