MISSION UPDATES | August 17, 2016

Sols 1434-1435: Inspecting Wheels and Buttes

Written by Ryan Anderson, Planetary Geologist at USGS Astrogeology Science Center

Once again our drive went smoothly and we’re planning to drive
some more in today’s plan! The Sol 1434 plan starts out with ChemCam
observations of the targets "Cubal" and "Soyo". Mastcam will document those two
targets and then continue the effort to study the nearby buttes. The team is
really enjoying the spectacular scenery because it means there is a lot of
interesting geology on display! In the afternoon on Sol 1434, we will check out
the rover’s wheels with MAHLI. On Sol 1435 Curiosity will drive about 65 meters
and do the usual post-drive imaging. In the afternoon on Sol 1435 there is a
short science block, during which ChemCam will make a calibration measurement. by Ryan Anderson -Ryan is a planetary scientist at the USGS Astrogeology Science Center and a member of the ChemCam team on MSL. 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