As of June 22, 2016, curiosity is fine. IT just came across something on its way that caused it to place the limits of its suspension, causing it to stop and send a signal to earth. The stop was made after 17 meters from the already planned 65 meter drive. Scientists plan to make up for that delay in distance today by conducting image mapping of nearby features and the atmosphere. Curiosity will soon be ready to continue the exploration ofthe sedimentary structure of Mount Sharp.
Imaging samples
On June 21, 2016-sol 1378, (a mean Martian solar day or sol is equal to 24 hours, 39 minutes and 35.244 seconds, a little over a day on earth) the rover´s Chemcam has observed a bedrock at an area called Tombua, and a rock named ¨Ais.¨ the rover´s Mastcam imaged the two targets The rover also took images of some veins at a site named ¨Helgas.¨ The rover continued driving, conducting post-drive imaging."
Atmospheric inspections
On sol 1379, the rover will conduct atmospheric examinations with its three cameras; Mastcam, Chemcam and Navcam.
The rover will remain quiet for some time during the day, but in the afternoon, Curiosity´s Chemcam will perform a series of tuning observations and some other atmospheric observations with the Mastcam.
Four years and 13 km driving
Since landing down in Bradbury Landing in August 1212, Curiosity has driven 13.04 km (8.10 miles).The rover is finally at the base of Mount Sharp., where it will conduct studies of the sedimentary rock environment as the rover climbs the mountain.
Discoveries
Curiosity roverhasremained 1378 sols (1416 earth days) on Mars since its first landing on August 6, 1212. During its more than 4 years on Mars, Curiosity has found hydrogen, carbon, phosphorous, oxygen and sulfur, elements necessary for the development of life.
Magnesium sulfate, sulfates, and iron oxide, potasic sedimentary rocks, hydrogen and chlorine, evidence of trydimite in high SiO2 sedimentary rock, among many other minerals
Gale crater
This site was chosen by scientists studying Mars from earth, as it had varied geological environments that would easily be accessed by the rover and because it promised a variety of locations for science studies.The rover´s activities are subjected to change due to factors, including the changing environment on Mars, and communication relays.
