Curiosity Blog, Sols 4602-4603: On Top of the Ridge
Written by Alex Innanen, atmospheric scientist at the University of York
Earth planning date: Wednesday July 16, 2025
As we hoped, we managed to climb the 11 -meter ramp (about 36 feet) and we arrived at the top of the ridge and at the start of the main box region. This means that we are entering the next phase of the boxwork campaign, which consists in assessing these features and how we can navigate through them and learn everything we can on their composition.
In support of this, we examine the boxwork crests with Chemcam and Mastcam. The two instruments take mosaics from the most distant ridges to obtain a wider view of their features. A little closer, Mastcam has three other mosaics: two looking at different views on “El Corral” and “Chapare”, which we both saw in the plan on Monday, and “Meson”, which is the crest that we will head in the journey of 15 meters today (about 49 feet).
But everything does not look to the future. The workspace in front of us also has a lot to offer. Mastcam will turn its views towards certain linear characteristics nearby. Our workspace is also full of nodular base, which attracts a lot of attention closely. Chemcam will turn his laser libs on a target called “Altamora”, and Mahli and Apxs will examine another target called “Nocarane”.
With all geological excitement, we can always manage to walk in a certain time to keep an eye on the environment. Although we do not always mentor them, Rems, Rad and Dan are always there to work regularly to develop our understanding of the March environment. We will also complete the plan with a suprahorizon Cloud film and a 360 -degree dust survey.
