Curiosity rover finds unexpected pure sulphur crystals on Mars
The Curiosity rover, which has been studying the surface of Mars for years, provides Earth scientists with invaluable information about the Red Planet's geological composition. During one of its recent routine operations, Curiosity accidentally split open a rock, inside which were hidden pure sulphur crystals.
Curiosity began its mission on 26 November 2011, launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida. It safely reached Mars on 6 August 2012, landing in Gale Crater. Since then, it has continuously conducted surface studies on Mars, providing scientists on Earth with invaluable data.
The mission of the Curiosity rover involves exploring the surface of Mars to understand its climate and geology and search for signs of past life. Curiosity studies Martian rocks and soil's chemical and mineral composition by analysing samples with advanced scientific instruments. Additionally, the rover monitors radiation on the Martian surface, which is crucial for future manned missions.
New discovery on Mars
For several months, Curiosity has focused on studying the Mount Sharp region, where many minerals, including sulphates, have been discovered. According to IFLScience, during one of its excursions, the rover accidentally split open a rock and found pure sulphur crystals inside. This unexpected discovery has caught the attention of scientists because pure sulphur crystals can provide valuable information about past geochemical conditions on Mars.
Pure sulphur had never been observed on Mars before. Although sulphates contain sulphur, there is no apparent connection between the formation of these molecules and pure crystals. Elementary sulphur crystals form only under specific conditions, which were not expected in this region.
Scientists want to study Mars more thoroughly
Scientists are determined to understand the Red Planet better. Curiosity, equipped with advanced research instruments such as X-ray spectrometers, high-resolution cameras, and chemical analysis devices, will continue its research, providing us with more new and detailed information about Mars. The discovery of pure sulphur crystals is another step towards understanding the mysteries of the Red Planet and searching for signs of past life.
"Finding a field of stones made of pure sulphur is like finding an oasis in the desert," said Curiosity project scientist Ashwin Vasavada from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in a statement. "It shouldn't be there, so now we have to explain it."
