Scientists Gear Up for Exciting Drilling at the ‘Lubango’ Fracture Zone on Mars

After a successful bump on Sol 1317, the team is now ready to begin drilling at the “Lubango” fracture zone. A plan was discussed and decided upon after much consideration, which includes contact science at three specific targets near “Lubango.” The first step will involve using the DRT to clear off a fresh surface. Although the DRT location is slightly offset from the intended drill location, MAHLI will be used to capture images of both locations.

In the evening, another APXS integration will be completed on a target named “Congula,” which is a block of outcrop adjacent to “Lubango.” The APXS will then be placed on the DRT location for an overnight integration. With all the plans in place, it was a productive day as the team discussed potential drill locations. Tomorrow, the GSTL will be on duty, and the team is looking forward to an exciting week of operations ahead.