Sols 1443-1445: A SAM-filled weekend plan

The drive planned on Wednesday did not execute due to an unanticipated flight software interaction.  However, the problem is now understood and we will attempt the drive again next week.

Today’s three-sol weekend plan is focused on SAM activities and contact science.  On the first sol we’ll do a SAM pre-conditioning activity to prepare the sample cup prior to delivery of the Marimba2 drill sample.  We’ll also acquire a ChemCam observation of the target “Viana 2” to assess the chemistry of the local bedrock and nodules.  Then we’ll take a Mastcam mosaic to document several light-toned ridges and possible channel features, followed by several environmental monitoring activities.  In the afternoon we’ll drop off the Marimba2 sample to SAM, and the evolved gas analysis will occur overnight.  The second sol contains ChemCam observations of “Ganda” and “Catabola,” followed by DRT and contact science on “Ganda,” and MAHLI and another short APXS integration on the target “Andulo.”  This is a very power heavy and complex plan, so the third sol will be relatively light, with a ChemCam passive and Mastcam multispectral observation on “Ganda,” and additional ChemCam LIBS target at “Calonda,” and some Mastcam deck monitoring.  Sounds like a busy weekend!

By Lauren Edgar

--Lauren is a Research Geologist at the USGS Astrogeology Science Center and a member of the MSL science team.