As Curiosity marks its fourth anniversary (in Earth years) since landing on Mars, the rover is working on collecting its 17th sample.
During its time trundling around the red planet, Curiosity has returned more than 128,000 images and fired its laser more than 362,000 times. As of the fourth anniversary, it traversed 13.57 kilometres of terrain on the red planet.
Currently on a multi-month ascent toward higher and progressively younger geological evidence on Mount Sharp, the rover hopes to explore some new rock types and provide even more information on the layered mountain inside Gale Crater.
Originally published by Cosmos as Curiosity Rover celebrates four years on Mars
Cosmos
Curated content from the editorial staff at Cosmos Magazine.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
