NASA’s Curiosity rover has celebrated 13 years on Mars, and it’s still uncovering the Red Planet’s secrets. Since landing in Gale Crater in 2012, the rover has traveled over 22 miles, studying rock layers, analyzing soil, and revealing ancient signs of liquid water, a thicker atmosphere, and conditions that might have supported microbial life.
Despite the toll of time, including worn wheels and mechanical glitches, engineers have kept the rover rolling with creative workarounds and remote fixes. Recently, the rover received software upgrades that allow it to multitask and conserve energy from its aging nuclear power source. This new autonomy enables the rover to put itself to sleep early when it finishes its daily tasks, helping to extend its scientific lifespan.
The rover’s ability to conserve energy is crucial as its plutonium-powered system gradually produces less energy over time. Engineers have been working to boost the rover’s efficiency by combining previously standalone tasks like driving, taking photos, and transmitting data. By doing so, they’ve shortened each day’s operational plan, reducing valuable energy usage.
The latest update comes in the form of an eye-catching rock formation resembling “coral” spotted on July 24, 2025. The Paposo rock, about two inches wide, likely formed billions of years ago when Mars was wetter than it is today. Mineral-rich water seeped into cracks, leaving behind hardened deposits that were sculpted by powerful winds.
Curiosity remains in good health, thanks to smart engineering and updated algorithms. The rover is currently exploring a region rich in “boxwork formations,” a network of ridges likely formed through ancient water activity. With its newfound autonomy and rest, Curiosity continues to keep busy, uncovering the secrets of Mars.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/mars-rovers/curiosity-rover-celebrates-13-years-on-mars-with-well-deserved-naps-and-red-planet-coral