Curiosity rover finds sulfur crystals on Mars
These yellow crystals were revealed after NASA's Curiosity happened to drive over a rock and crack it open on May 30. Using an instrument on the rover's arm, scientists later determined these crystals are elemental sulfur—and it's the first time this kind of sulfur has been found on the Red Planet (Photo by NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS)
On May 30, NASA’s Curiosity rover made an astonishing discovery in the Gediz Vallis channel on Mars. The rover, while driving over a rock, cracked it open to reveal bright yellow crystals – elemental sulfur – marking the first time this type of sulfur has been found on the Red Planet.
This finding highlights the excitement and unpredictability of planetary exploration.
Elemental sulfur found for first time on Mars
Since October 2023, Curiosity has been exploring an area rich in sulfates, which are salts containing sulfur formed from evaporating water.
While previous findings included sulfur-based minerals – sulfur mixed with other materials – the rock recently cracked open by Curiosity contained pure elemental sulfur.
It remains unclear how this pure sulfur relates to the sulfur-based minerals in the region.
Curiosity’s project scientist, Ashwin Vasavada, described the discovery of a field of pure sulfur stones as “like finding an oasis in the desert.”
He emphasized that such unexpected discoveries are what make planetary exploration so thrilling.
Gediz Vallis channel provides clues to Mars’ water history
Gediz Vallis, identified from space years before Curiosity’s mission, is a key area of interest due to its potential history of water flow and debris.
The channel features large mounds of debris that scientists believe were shaped by ancient floods and landslides.
Recent clues from Curiosity suggest that both violent water flows and local landslides contributed to the current landscape.
Curiosity drills into ‘Mammoth Lakes’ for 41st sample
Although the sulfur rocks were too small and brittle for sampling, Curiosity successfully drilled into a larger rock nicknamed “Mammoth Lakes” on June 18.
The powdered rock has been sent to the rover’s onboard instruments for analysis, providing valuable insights into the rock’s composition. Curiosity is now continuing its exploration of the channel, eager to uncover more surprises.
These discoveries underscore Mars’ complex history and the ongoing mystery of its ancient environments. With each finding, Curiosity helps reveal the Red Planet’s deep and intricate past.
