Mars Weekend: Focusing on Science and Discovery while Sticking to One Location

This weekend, we decided to remain at the same location where we have been for the past week in order to focus on our activities. Although we were eager to explore new terrain, we had numerous fascinating science targets that kept us busy. On the first day of our weekend plans (Sol 1961), we scheduled a range of ChemCam observations including LIBS measurements on bedrock targets “Glenfinnan” and “Skara Brae,” a long-distance RMI image of Mount Sharp, and a passive measurement of “Bloodstone Hill.” In addition, we planned to take Mastcam images to document the LIBS targets and for change detection.

When spending an extended period in one location, we enjoy taking repeat Mastcam images of the same target area across multiple sols in order to search for any changes or movement in the field of view. To wind down for the day, we intended to capture a Navcam movie in order to look for dust devils in the area. In the evening, we planned to take MAHLI nighttime images of Glenfinnan and Skara Brae in order to get a closer look at the small-scale features within the rocks after some dust had been cleared by our earlier observations.

On Sol 1962, our plan was to drive to our next VRR location and take post-drive images before preparing ourselves for an exciting week ahead filled with contact and remote science activities. With a packed schedule of activities and science observations lined up, we were looking forward to another productive weekend on Mars.