The Sol 27 plan focused on sampling Mars’ atmosphere with the SAM instrument, and ChemCam was given top priority for acquiring better observations of its calibration target. However, a new outcrop target was discovered by the science team and they wanted to investigate further with ChemCam’s laser. Steve Squyres, the Mineralogy Science Theme Group Lead, requested more time for scientific observations. Pauline Hwang, the Tactical Uplink Lead, agreed to grant an extra 40 minutes for the work.
This decision brought happiness to the team and Mastcam observations were included in the plan. As I left JPL a few hours ago, it seemed likely that these observations would be approved and sent to MSL early the next morning. Although not scheduled for a tactical role that day, I couldn’t resist spending most of my time at JPL as I find MSL mission operations to be incredibly engaging. With less focus on planning, I was able to catch up on tasks such as processing new MARDI images for compression analysis and reviewing older ChemCam RMI images for size reduction potential.
The analysis of compressing images is crucial for maximizing data transmission efficiency from MSL to Mars orbiters. It is essential to preserve image details for geological interpretation while optimizing file sizes. Completing this analysis promptly is vital for ensuring efficient data transmission and utilization of resources.
As I walked around JPL’s halls, I couldn’t help but marvel at the excitement in the air surrounding the Sol 26 drive and post-drive images revealing interesting outcrops in front of the rover. The focus of Sol 27’s plan was on sampling Mars’ atmosphere with the SAM instrument, but there were still plenty of scientific discoveries waiting to be made.
Despite being scheduled for other tasks that day, I couldn’t resist spending most of my time at JPL observing what was happening with MSL mission operations. It wasn’t long before I heard about Steve Squyres requesting more time for additional scientific observations with ChemCam’s laser.
Pauline Hwang agreed to grant an extra 40 minutes for their work, which brought happiness to both her and Steve. With this additional time, they were able to delve deeper into their investigations and make even more discoveries about Mars.
As I left JPL a few hours ago, it seemed likely that these scientific observations would be approved and sent to MSL early the next morning. This news filled me with excitement as I knew that there were still many discoveries waiting to be made on this incredible mission.
Although not scheduled for a tactical role that day, I spent most of my time at JPL catching up on tasks such as processing new MARDI images for compression analysis and reviewing older ChemCam RMI images for size reduction potential.
These tasks were crucial in ensuring efficient data transmission from MSL to Mars orbiters while preserving image details for geological interpretation while optimizing file sizes.
Overall, it was an incredible day at JPL as we continued our quest to explore Mars and uncover its secrets!
