NASA’s Mars rover has successfully completed its second sol of imaging on Mount Sharp, allowing for in-depth analysis of the terrain. The rover’s “targeted” science blocks enable it to take a closer look at specific areas of interest, including the geological feature known as “Big Bear Lake.” This lake is being studied using various instruments such as APXS and MAHLI, which provide detailed images and chemical analysis.
In addition to the targeted science blocks, remote sensing activities are also taking place. ChemCam has been used to take LIBS observations of two prominent features: “Volcan Mountains” and a distant boxwork structure. Mastcam is capturing mosaics of nearby geological formations, including a trough, two depressions known as “Sulphur Spring,” and the distant “Mishe Mokwa butte.”
The environmental theme group focused on remote sensing activities, with dust monitoring observations and cloud surveys being conducted. The rover’s cameras captured data on dust devils and atmospheric dust levels to better understand Martian weather patterns. To study clouds, a suraphorizon movie was taken, while a phase function sky survey captured images of clouds from all directions.
These discoveries provide valuable insights into the geology and environmental conditions of Mount Sharp on Mars, advancing our understanding of the Red Planet’s complex systems.
Source: https://science.nasa.gov/blog/sols-4547-4548-taking-in-the-view-after-a-long-drive