MISSION UPDATES | August 26, 2015

Sols 1087-1088: Bright features

Written by Ken Herkenhoff, Planetary Geologist at USGS Astrogeology Science Center

The complex, nearly
39-meter Sol 1085 drive completed successfully, leaving the rover in
another target-rich area. Again, I helped pick targets for ChemCam
observations--our favorites were on the brighter parts
of the outcrop just south of the rover .

The targets for ChemCam and Mastcam observations were named
"Fitzpatrick," "Keith," and "Fred and George Creek." Mastcam will also
acquire 2 mosaics before the rover drives away on Sol 1087. Planning is
still restricted, so we also planned Sol 1088, which
starts with early-morning Mastcam and Navcam images of the sun and
sky. Similar observations are planned around noon
that sol, to measure daily variations in atmospheric dust and clouds.
Finally, CheMin's inlet funnel will be vibrated in an attempt to remove
a particle from the screen over the funnel.

by Ken Herkenhoff
Dates of planned rover activities described in these reports are subject to change due to a variety of factors related to the Martian environment, communication relays and rover status.