Unexpected discovery of pure sulphur crystals on Mars by Curiosity
The Curiosity rover continues to explore Mars, providing scientists on Earth with valuable data about the Red Planet's geological composition. Recently, during one of its routine operations, Curiosity accidentally split a rock that hid an extraordinary surprise—pure sulphur crystals.
The Curiosity rover was launched on 26 November 2011 from Cape Canaveral in Florida. It has been on Mars since 6 August 2012, when it safely landed in Gale Crater. Since then, Curiosity has continuously studied the surface of Mars, providing scientists with valuable data.
Its mission is to study the surface of Mars, analyse rocks and soil, and look for traces of past life on this planet. Curiosity provides scientists with valuable data that help better understand Mars's geological history and conditions.
Surprising discovery on Mars
For several months, Curiosity has been 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 a rock and found pure sulphur crystals inside. This unexpected find caught the attention of scientists because pure sulphur crystals can provide valuable information about past geochemical conditions on Mars.
Pure sulphur had never been seen on Mars before. And although sulphates contain sulphur, there is no clear connection between the formation of these molecules and pure crystals. Elemental sulphur crystals only form under specific conditions, none of which were expected in this region.
Scientists want to better understand the Red Planet
Equipped with advanced research instruments, such as X-ray spectrometers, high-resolution cameras, and chemical analysis devices, Curiosity will continue its research, providing us with newer and more detailed information about Mars. The discovery of pure sulphur crystals is another step toward understanding the mysteries of the Red Planet and searching for traces of past life.
"Finding a field of stones made of pure sulfur 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."
