Nearing the southwestern extent of the Jezero crater rim on Mars, NASA’s Perseverance rover has positioned itself to take a closer look at a geological feature known as ‘Pico Turquino.’ This recent activity aims to understand the history and diverse composition of this exposed ridge.
The image of Pico Turquino was captured using the rover’s Front Left Hazard Avoidance Camera A during a strategic drive on sol 1332, corresponding to November 18, 2024, local mean solar time on Mars. Perseverance managed a 107-meter journey to reach this location, part of its plan to investigate the 200-meter-long rock outcrop. Such formations on Mars are crucial as they might hold clues to ancient geological processes, perhaps those predating or linked to the impact that created Jezero crater.
Throughout recent weeks, the mission team has focused on examining outcropping ridges during the rover’s climb up the crater rim. The aim has been to characterize the variety and structure of these rock formations. Noteworthy is the proximity science targeting Pico Turquino’s rock types, expected to reveal further insights into Mars’ history.
Last week, Perseverance’s path closely paralleled Pico Turquino from approximately 70 meters to the south. Following this, a deliberate approach over the weekend positioned the rover strategically for its scientific pursuits. This approach was facilitated by advanced remote sensing operations employing the Mastcam-Z and SuperCam instruments. These tools conducted detailed examinations of the regolith and captured long-distance imagery of both a steep scarp and a nearby 20-meter diameter crater to the northwest.
Looking ahead, the rover will soon advance towards a destination named ‘Witch Hazel Hill.’ Orbital observations indicate this area might host layered, light-toned bedrock, potentially offering valuable insights into Mars’ ancient climate. Before arriving there, Perseverance is scheduled to pass through ‘Lookout Hill,’ a vantage point providing extensive views back into the crater and a glimpse westward beyond Jezero.
The ongoing research conducted by Perseverance not only expands our understanding of Martian geology but also aids in unraveling the climatic history of Mars, contributing to broader questions about the planet’s past habitability.
As Perseverance progresses on its journey across Jezero crater, each stop adds a piece to the puzzle of Mars’ geological past. The continued exploration of features like Pico Turquino and beyond is pivotal in our quest to comprehend the Red Planet’s history.
Source: Science.nasa ˙ Youtube
