NASA’s Perseverance rover is tirelessly exploring Mars and recently overcame a rocky challenge to collect another valuable sample. After successfully obtaining a core sample from an area called Green Gardens, the rover moved downhill to a site named Broom Point, chosen for its intriguing layered rock patterns spotted in satellite images.
These alternating light and dark layers on the ground were confirmed, offering clues about Mars’ geological past. These layers could reveal events like sediment deposition or volcanic activity. The team used advanced instruments on Perseverance to analyze the rocks and collected a core sample, ensuring future researchers can study it in detail.
However, not everything went smoothly. While preparing the rock for sampling by abrading its surface, a rock at Broom Point fractured, creating an uneven surface that posed challenges for the SHERLOC instrument.
The team adapted using the WATSON camera to map the cracks and safely guide the instrument. Their ingenuity paid off, allowing them to complete their analysis and collect the Main River core without further issues.
Perseverance continues to uncover Mars’ secrets, one core sample at a time.
