Martian dawn pic from Curiosity rover highlights cliffs and crags
On October 6, 2026, NASA released an image of Martian dawn from the Curiosity rover. The image captures a pale light illuminating distant cliffs and crags. The post Martian dawn pic from Curiosity rover highlights cliffs and crags first appeared on EarthSky .
On October 6, 2026, NASA unveiled a striking image of a Martian dawn captured by the Curiosity rover. The photograph showcases the sun's soft rays bathing the distant cliffs and crags of the region, specifically highlighting the odd terrain known as yardangs. Curiosity, which has been exploring the Mount Sharp region since its arrival in 2012, has now reached a significant milestone - surpassing 5,000 Martian days or "sols."
Project scientist Ashwin Vasavada of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory noted that the yardangs, protruding landscape features, appear unusual due to their distinct color, tilted layers, and apparent placement. While the exact cause of this peculiar layer remains uncertain, one theory suggests it could be ash deposited by ancient volcanic eruptions.
Curiosity has climbed 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) of elevation as it ascends Mount Sharp, the highest ever climbed on Mars, and continues to advance toward the base of the yardangs by 2027.
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