NASA’s Mars 2020 rover has discovered a geological mystery in the Jezero crater. During its exploration of Witch Hazel Hill, the rover found an intriguing dark rock named “Skull Hill,” which initially sparked excitement as a possible meteorite. However, new data suggests that it may be a volcanic rock carried from elsewhere.
The rover’s journey took it to Port Anson, where it encountered a striking boundary between lighter and darker rock layers, known as a geologic contact. Alongside this contact, the rover discovered several float rocks, fragments that likely originated elsewhere and were later transported to their current location.
One of these float rocks, named Skull Hill, features several small pits and scattered spherical particles, called spherules. The rover’s instruments have analyzed the rock’s composition, which shows a mix of iron and magnesium, similar to igneous rocks found on Earth and Mars.
While the dark color of Skull Hill is reminiscent of meteorites, recent analysis suggests that its composition does not match a meteorite origin. Instead, it may be an igneous rock eroded from a nearby outcrop or ejected from an impact crater.
The discovery of Skull Hill provides valuable insights into the geological history of Jezero Crater and the surrounding area. The rover’s findings will help scientists better understand the formation and evolution of rocks on Mars.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/dark-pitted-and-possibly-alien-the-skull-hill-rock-that-has-scientists-stumped