Curiosity is making good progress, driving almost 68 meters last weekend.  We had the option of taking some MAHLI images on Sol 1412, but decided to maximize the drive distance instead.  Before the drive, ChemCam and Mastcam will observe bedrock targets “Jamba” and “Huambo” and the Right Mastcam will acquire a 3-image mosaic of a small depression called “Mungo.”  After acquiring the post-drive imaging needed to plan future mobility, ChemCam will use AEGIS to autonomously select a new target for a LIBS raster.  Early the next morning, Navcam will search for clouds and dust devils, and Mastcam will measure the dustiness of the atmosphere.  The dust measurements will be repeated at noon and mid-afternoon to look for changes during the day. The Right Mastcam will also acquire a 14-image mosaic of the Murray Buttes early in the morning, and we finally were able to plan the long-distance RMI mosaic!  The tactical team did a great job of planning today, so it has been a relatively easy day for me as SOWG Chair.

by Ken Herkenhoff