June 16, 2022
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Perseverance rover landed on Mars’ Jezero Crater on February 18, 2021. Since then, it has been testing its instruments and tools to gain an understanding of its surrounding areas. But its main purpose is to study the sediments to the west of Jezero.
Scientists believe that the rocks in this area have the potential of retaining evidence of life that may have existed on the planet in the past. Examining these rocks will also help scientists understand the climate of Mars and its evolution over time. The rover began its climb up the delta feature in May 2022. It will examine rocks on its way uphill and collect samples, which will be brought to Earth in the 2030s for inspection.
Did You Know?
The presence of iron oxide on the surface of Mars makes it appear reddish in colour, which is why it is referred to as the Red Planet.
ACTIVITY: Talk Like a Martian
Invent 7 words for a Martian to use on its planet and mention their meaning.
