NASA’s Curiosity rover has made a groundbreaking discovery in the Gale Crater region of Mars, uncovering a complex web-like structure resembling boxwork formations found on Earth. This finding, published by Mission Operations Engineer Ashley Stroupe, suggests that groundwater may have persisted longer and been more dynamic than previously thought.
The intricate lattice of ridges was initially identified from orbit, but close-up inspection has been delayed due to the rover’s positioning. To compensate, Curiosity is using its Mastcam and ChemCam instruments for a comprehensive sweep of the area. The rover is capturing panoramic mosaics and analyzing the composition of nearby peaks using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS).
This dual-instrument approach provides chemical and structural analysis, helping to reconstruct Mars’ geological timeline. Engineers also conducted routine maintenance on the rover’s Heat Rejection System, ensuring the backup pump remains operational.
The discovery has significant implications for our understanding of Mars’ hydrogeological past. The team is planning to reposition Curiosity backward by 30 centimeters to dislodge it from an obstructing pebble and bring the target rock formations within reach of its robotic arm. This phase will enable direct surface composition analysis using instruments like APXS and MAHLI.
The mission also includes atmospheric science activities, such as tracking dust levels and conducting Navcam movies. Curiosity’s autonomous targeting system, AEGIS, enables real-time science collection even when Earth-based commands are delayed.
The discovery of this potential boxwork formation could offer conclusive evidence of persistent subsurface water on Mars, bolstering theories about the planet’s once-habitable environment.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/05/nasa-finds-mysterious-stone-web-on-mars-scientists-baffled