The Curiosity team on Mars is currently facing an exciting challenge as they try to collect a rock sample. Despite the drill’s ability to create a hole, the planet’s stubbornness has prevented it from reaching a depth where a sample can be collected. As a result, the team has had to move away from their original target, known as “Lake_Orcadie.”
In an effort to overcome this obstacle, a group of dedicated scientists and engineers have identified a new drill target named “Lake_Orcadie2.” This new target is located roughly 7 inches to the right of the original one. Curiosity’s main focus is now to thoroughly characterize this new location using instruments such as the APXS and MAHLI after brushing away the debris with the dirt removal tool.
In addition to studying the new drill target, Curiosity will also be examining the wall and tailings from the first drill hole. This will be done using the ChemCam LIBS raster and Mastcam imaging techniques. The team is determined to find a suitable location for drilling and collecting rock samples, and they are optimistic about the potential of the new drill site.
