Curiosity rover targets giant spiderwebs on Mars

NASA's Curiosity rover, which has been studying Mars since 2012, is about to embark on a new mission to investigate a large collection of geological features resembling spiderwebs on the Martian surface. These web-like formations, known as boxwork, span an area between 6 and 12 miles, emerging from the ancient geological processes linked to the planet's watery history. Earlier in the year, Curiosity successfully completed its previous leg of the mission, which took place in Gediz Vallis, exploring a channel carved into the slopes of Mount Sharp and revealing significant scientific findings, such as crystals of pure sulfur and unique sedimentary rock formations resulting from ancient lakes. The rover's observations during this stage included documents about accidental wear on its wheels while navigating the steep terrain, leading to enhanced insights into the Martian environment. With the transition to studying the boxwork, scientists hope to elucidate more about the processes that formed these features and their implications for past water presence on Mars. The minerals identified in these structures could potentially provide evidence regarding the historical occurrence of extraterrestrial life, marking this next exploration as a crucial step in understanding Mars’ geological narrative and its suitability for life. Curiosity is expected to reach its new target in early 2025.