In the latest update, our team is sharing progress on their one-sol drive plans. Despite the challenges of driving a giant robot on another planet, they are making it happen! Yesterday’s drive covered over 60 meters and they are preparing for another drive in the upcoming sol 1385 plan.
Before the drive, there will be a brief science block scheduled. This includes ChemCam observation of “Epembe” and a Mastcam mosaic of “Baynes Mountain” to complete a gap in the 360-degree mosaic from the previous day. Following these observations, they will embark on a 70-meter drive, capturing post-drive images along the way.
In addition to these activities, AEGIS will be used for ChemCam observation after the drive and MAHLI will examine the ground beneath the rover’s wheels. Ryan Anderson, a planetary scientist at USGS Astrogeology Science Center and a member of ChemCam team on MSL provided this update. Please note that planned rover activities mentioned in these reports are subject to change based on various factors related to Martian environment, communication relays and rover status.
