NASA’s Perseverance rover, while navigating the ancient river channel Neretva Vallis, has captured a remarkable view of a scientifically intriguing area known as “Bright Angel.” This image was taken using one of the rover’s navigation cameras on June 6, 2024, marking the 1,172nd Martian day, or sol, of its mission.
Bright Angel, identified by its distinctive light-toned area in the distance to the right, lies at the base of the northern wall of Neretva Vallis. This ancient river channel once funneled fresh water into Jezero Crater billions of years ago. The area features prominent light-toned rocky outcrops, which are of particular interest to scientists. These outcrops may either be ancient sediment deposits that later filled the channel or much older rocks that have been exposed due to river erosion over time.
The study of Bright Angel and its geological features is crucial for understanding the history of water on Mars. The light-toned rocks could provide valuable clues about the planet’s past environments, potentially revealing insights into the climatic conditions that existed when water flowed through Neretva Vallis into Jezero Crater.
As Perseverance continues its mission, the rover’s detailed observations and analyses of areas like Bright Angel will help scientists piece together the history of Mars’ ancient waterways. This research is not only fundamental for understanding the planet’s geological history but also for assessing its past potential for habitability.
The exploration of Neretva Vallis and its features underscores the significance of the Perseverance mission in advancing our knowledge of Mars. Each discovery brings us closer to unraveling the mysteries of the Red Planet and lays the groundwork for future missions, including the eventual human exploration of Mars.
Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech
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They should put a rake on a rover,and draw something.Like company logos,then take satellite pictures of them? Could make a buck or two.
Just one thing thats not mars thats in Quebec Canada 😂