Perseverance Rover Unveils New Insights Into Mars’ Ancient Geology

NASA’s rover accelerates science collection on Jezero Crater’s western rim, uncovering diverse rock formations and evidence of past water activity.

Perseverance has achieved its fastest science-collection pace since January 2025, coring five rocks, sealing three samples, and analyzing over 90 rocks through various techniques.
The rover is exploring the western rim of Jezero Crater, where diverse rock types, including igneous and layered sedimentary formations, provide a detailed record of Mars' ancient geologic history.
The 'Silver Mountain' sample, collected in January, comes from a rock formed at least 3.9 billion years ago, offering insights into Mars' Noachian period.
Analysis of the 'Tablelands' sample revealed serpentine minerals, indicating significant past water activity and potential conditions for microbial life.
Innovative engineering, including the 'flick maneuver,' overcame challenges in sealing the 'Tablelands' sample, showcasing the rover’s technical adaptability.