NASA’s Perseverance rover has discovered a mysterious rock on Mars with hundreds of millimeter-size dark gray spheres, some featuring tiny pinholes. The discovery has left scientists puzzled and eager to learn more about the geological origins of this feature. Located on the rim of the Jezero Crater, the rock may have formed through different processes, including groundwater interaction or volcanic activity.
The Perseverance team is working hard to determine the context and origin of the spherule-rich rock, which has similarities to other formations spotted by NASA’s Opportunity and Curiosity rovers. These rocks suggest that ancient Martian groundwater once flowed through them, but could have also formed from volcanic processes or meteorite impacts.
The rover is currently exploring the rim of Jezero Crater, where scientists believe ancient groundwater may have interacted with rocks in a unique environment. The samples collected by Perseverance, including one with leopard-like spots and poppy seed features, are expected to provide valuable insights into Mars’ geological history.
As part of NASA’s ambitious Mars Sample Return mission, the rover is collecting samples that could hold evidence of ancient microbial activity. However, due to cost and schedule overruns, the mission is undergoing an overhaul, and the agency is exploring alternative plans to return the samples home.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/mars-rovers/strange-sphere-studded-rock-on-mars-found-by-nasas-perseverance-rover