Got Rock Sample: Sol 3755
by Kenneth Herkenhoff | Planetary Geologist - USGS Astrogeology
Pasadena CA (JPL) Mar 01, 2023

I am pleased to report that the tactical operations team had a successful morning as we were able to acquire a sample of the Tapo Caparo bedrock. Despite the target rock slab fracturing during drilling, we were able to collect enough sample for analysis by the CheMin and SAM instruments. Our primary goal for Sol 3755 is to drop some of the drill sample into CheMin for analysis, but we have several remote science observations planned beforehand.

First, Mastcam will acquire a 2-frame stereo mosaic of the steep, sandy "Rio Unini" surface at the base of Chenapau to search for possible changes since it was imaged on Sol 3748. Additionally, Mastcam multispectral observations of foreign stones "Tucupita" and "Tamanaco" are planned, as well as a 6x3 stereo mosaic of sedimentary structures in "Chenapau Valley."

Navcam will search for dust devils, and ChemCam will shoot its laser at the wall of the drill hole and measure the spectral reflectance of the Tapo Caparo drill tailings. The Right Mastcam will document the ChemCam laser spots and take a 6x8 stereo mosaic to extend the coverage of the nearby "Tefe" sedimentary laminations before the arm is used to feed a couple sample portions to CheMin.

After a nap, the rover will wake up to acquire MARDI and Navcam images during evening twilight before taking another nap. The overnight CheMin analysis will then begin. We are all eagerly anticipating what CheMin discovers about the minerals in Tapo Caparo and look forward to the results.

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