On Sol 1067, Curiosity successfully drove for 19 meters and is now back in Missoula for more targeted science. The objective is to perform a comprehensive study of the Stimson-Pahrump contact and determine the relative timing of the veins observed there. The upcoming three-sol plan is focused on ChemCam analyses. On Sol 1068, Curiosity will acquire ChemCam LIBS on four different “Missoula” targets (Missoula A, B, C, and D) to understand the chemistry across the contact. Several Mastcam images will also be taken to document these targets. On Sol 1070, a ChemCam passive observation will be made on the target “Coombs” and a regular ChemCam LIBS observation on the target “Stenerson.” Environmental monitoring activities will also be conducted over the weekend to assess the atmosphere’s opacity and search for dust devils.

After thoroughly investigating the outcrop with ChemCam, Curiosity will resume driving through Marias Pass on Sol 1070 and take post-drive imaging to prepare for science activities next week. Lauren Edgar, a Research Geologist at the USGS Astrogeology Science Center and a member of the MSL science team, provided this update. It’s important to note that planned rover activities are subject to change based on factors such as the Martian environment, communication relays, and rover status.