Coral-shaped rock spotted on Mars, NASA shares pic
NASA’s Curiosity Mars rover has made another exciting discovery on the Martian surface, sending back black and white images of a rock that bears an uncanny resemblance to a piece of coral. The remarkable find was made in the Gale Crater, a large impact basin on Mars, and is believed to be approximately one billion years old.
The stunning image, which has been shared by NASA, shows the coral-shaped rock in stunning detail, with its intricate patterns and textures on full display. The rock, which measures about 10 centimeters (4 inches) in diameter, is remarkably similar to coral found on Earth, with its branching patterns and rounded shape.
The discovery was made possible thanks to NASA’s Mars Science Laboratory, a robotic rover that has been exploring the Martian surface since 2012. Equipped with a range of advanced scientific instruments, the Curiosity rover is designed to study the Martian geology, climate, and potential habitability.
The coral-shaped rock was identified using the rover’s ChemCam instrument, which is capable of analyzing the chemical composition of rocks and soil. By analyzing the rock’s chemical makeup, scientists were able to determine its age and composition, revealing that it is a type of basaltic rock that is common on Mars.
According to NASA, the coral-shaped rock is believed to have formed as a result of volcanic activity on Mars. The rock’s unique shape and structure are thought to have been shaped by the interactions between magma and water on the Martian surface.
The discovery of this coral-shaped rock is significant not only because of its striking resemblance to coral found on Earth, but also because it provides valuable insights into the geological history of Mars. By studying rocks like this one, scientists can gain a better understanding of the planet’s past environments and potential habitability.
“This rock is a great example of the diversity of geological features we’re seeing on Mars,” said Dr. Ashwin Vasavada, Curiosity rover project scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. “The rover is continuing to explore the Gale Crater and uncover its secrets, and we’re thrilled to share this exciting find with the public.”
The Curiosity rover has been exploring the Gale Crater since 2012, and has made numerous significant discoveries, including the detection of water and methane on the Martian surface. The rover’s findings have provided valuable insights into the Martian geology and climate, and have shed light on the planet’s potential habitability.
The coral-shaped rock is just the latest in a series of exciting discoveries made by the Curiosity rover. In recent years, the rover has discovered evidence of ancient lakes and rivers on Mars, as well as evidence of a watery past on the planet.
As NASA continues to explore the Martian surface, it is likely that the Curiosity rover will make many more exciting discoveries. With its advanced scientific instruments and capabilities, the rover is well-equipped to uncover the secrets of the Red Planet.
Source: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/images/pia26634-curiositys-chemcam-views-a-rock-shaped-like-coral/
