The journey to the south side of Pinnacle Ridge began with a successful ~14 m drive along a bend in upper Gediz Vallis ridge, allowing Curiosity to park next to “Pinnacle Ridge,” an outcrop of the ridge to the north. This strategic positioning provided the rover with an excellent vantage point to study the intriguing geological formations in the area.
Geological Formations and Observations
The rover’s instruments were able to collect a wealth of data on the rock formations and terrain in the vicinity of Pinnacle Ridge. The outcrop itself was found to be composed of layered sedimentary rocks, providing valuable insights into the geological history of the region.
Assessing the Surrounding Terrain
In addition to the rock formations, Curiosity also carefully surveyed the surrounding terrain, mapping out the slopes, elevation changes, and potential obstacles that lay ahead. This information was crucial in planning the rover’s next moves and ensuring a safe and efficient traverse through the challenging Martian landscape.