NASA’s Curiosity Rover has made an unexpected discovery on Mars, cracking open a rock and finding glowing yellow-colored rocks that were later identified as sulfur crystals. The discovery is significant as it marks the first time sulfur crystals have been seen on the surface of Mars.
The rover, which landed on Mars in 2012, has been actively exploring the planet for over 12 years. In May last year, Curiosity made another fascinating discovery when it rolled over a rock and cracked it open, revealing new insights about Martian geology.
This latest finding is particularly interesting as it challenges scientists’ long-held beliefs about water on Mars. The rover’s data suggested that water was present on Mars in the past, but this new discovery reveals something more complex.
According to Ashwin Vasavada, Curiosity’s project scientist, “Finding a field of stones made of pure sulfur is like finding an oasis in the desert. It shouldn’t be there, so now we have to explain it.” The discovery highlights the excitement and importance of planetary exploration, where unexpected discoveries are common.
The Curiosity Rover’s mission is to explore Mars’ ancient terrain and determine if microbial life could have existed on the planet. Discoveries like this one shed light on the possibility of life on Mars and provide crucial information for scientists searching for answers.
Source: https://supercarblondie.com/nasas-curiosity-rover-discovery-mars-rock