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107 years ago, the Eddington total eclipse experiment helped prove Einstein’s theory of relativity
The Eddington experiment used a solar eclipse to prove Albert Einstein’s general theory of relativity
Building the Moon Base: NASA Stories at the Ion
As NASA prepares to return astronauts to the lunar surface for longer stays and increasingly complex operations, building the Moon Base will require new ideas, advanced technologies, and expertise across many fields.
During NASA Stories at the Ion on July 30, Shatel Bhakta, principal systems engineer for NASA’s Moon Base Program, presented “Building the Moon Base: Challenges and Opportunities at the Lunar South Pole.” He discussed the work required to establish a sustained human presence at the Moon.
Through its growing partnership with Rice University and the Ion, NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston hosts recurring talks connecting agency experts with entrepreneurs, researchers, students, and industry leaders. The series gives Houston’s innovation community a closer look at the people and ideas shaping the future of exploration.
Shatel Bhakta, principal systems engineer for NASA’s Moon Base Program, presents during NASA Stories at the Ion. At left is Laura Neder, head of platform for the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and the Ion District. NASA/Sumer Loggins
Laura Neder, head of platform for the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and the Ion District, welcomed attendees and introduced Monte Goforth, acting director of Business Development and Technology Integration at Johnson. Goforth delivered opening remarks on the value of sharing NASA’s work beyond the agency and bringing people together to support future exploration before introducing Bhakta.
Bhakta outlined how NASA is working toward long-duration human exploration of the lunar South Pole through the agency’s Moon Base Program.
As part of that effort, NASA is taking a step-by-step approach to Moon Base development. Early robotic missions and technology demonstrations will help NASA gather data about the lunar environment, test systems, and reduce risks before expanding infrastructure and human operations.
“This is probably going to be the most challenging endeavor NASA has ever undertaken,” Bhakta said.
Meeting that challenge will require collaboration between NASA and its commercial and international partners to develop solutions for operating in extreme environmental conditions.
Unlike the Apollo landing sites, areas near the lunar South Pole contain steep slopes, deep craters, and lighting conditions that change throughout the year. The Sun remains low on the horizon, creating shifting shadows that can complicate navigation and leave solar panels without sunlight for extended periods, increasing the need for energy storage and other power sources.
Because of the region’s rugged terrain, crews, rovers, and other surface systems may not always have a clear line of sight to Earth. NASA will need communications infrastructure to relay signals across the lunar South Pole.
Bhakta explained that Moon Base may not be a single cluster of connected structures. Terrain, lighting, power, and landing constraints could require habitats and other systems to be distributed across the lunar surface.
Attendees listen as Shatel Bhakta, principal systems engineer for NASA’s Moon Base Program, discusses the challenges of establishing a sustained human presence at the Moon. NASA/Sumer Loggins
Lunar regolith, or Moon dust, remains one of the greatest challenges. Without mitigation, the sharp and clingy substance could damage equipment and spacesuits while posing health risks to astronauts. Its electrostatic properties can also change depending on lighting and environmental conditions.
Understanding how lunar regolith behaves will be essential to ensuring crews can safely live and work on the lunar surface.
Some permanently shadowed regions near the lunar South Pole may not have received direct sunlight for billions of years and may contain water ice and other volatile materials. These resources could support future exploration, but using them will require new mobility, power, and processing systems.
The Moon will also serve as a proving ground for missions farther into the solar system. Operating on the lunar surface will help NASA learn how crews, equipment, and infrastructure perform away from Earth before future human missions to Mars.
As NASA develops these capabilities, Bhakta explained that keeping the Moon Base architecture adaptable will require understanding how individual systems connect and work together.
“Don’t deal with the technology directly,” Bhakta said. “Deal with the interfaces.”
From left, Monte Goforth, acting director of Business Development and Technology Integration at NASA’s Johnson Space Center; Shatel Bhakta, principal systems engineer for NASA’s Moon Base Program; and Laura Neder, head of platform for the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and the Ion District, pose during NASA Stories at the Ion. NASA/Sumer Loggins
Building the Moon Base will take more than engineers and scientists. NASA will need communicators, business professionals, researchers, and people from many other fields to help solve problems and share the agency’s work.
“There are many ways to contribute,” Bhakta said. “Don’t be afraid that your skill set does not fit in.”
Moon Base build-up will offer multiple entry points for industry and international collaborators to participate, innovate, and contribute. From early demonstrations to long-term surface operations, there are multiple solicitations currently open.
Find more information at:
www.nasa.gov/moonbase-solicitations
About the AuthorSumer Loggins Share Details Last Updated Aug 11, 2026 Related Terms Explore More 5 min read NASA Completes Astronaut-Deployed Science Instrument for Lunar SurfaceNASA has declared “wrenches down” on the first completed payload designed for Artemis astronauts to…
Article 20 hours ago 3 min read NASA’s Lunar Development and Test Facility Prepares Artemis Hardware for Moon Article 5 days ago 2 min read Ames Science Stars of the Month – August 2026 Article 1 week ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASAMissions
Humans in Space
Climate Change
Solar System
Building the Moon Base: NASA Stories at the Ion
As NASA prepares to return astronauts to the lunar surface for longer stays and increasingly complex operations, building the Moon Base will require new ideas, advanced technologies, and expertise across many fields.
During NASA Stories at the Ion on July 30, Shatel Bhakta, principal systems engineer for NASA’s Moon Base Program, presented “Building the Moon Base: Challenges and Opportunities at the Lunar South Pole.” He discussed the work required to establish a sustained human presence at the Moon.
Through its growing partnership with Rice University and the Ion, NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston hosts recurring talks connecting agency experts with entrepreneurs, researchers, students, and industry leaders. The series gives Houston’s innovation community a closer look at the people and ideas shaping the future of exploration.
Shatel Bhakta, principal systems engineer for NASA’s Moon Base Program, presents during NASA Stories at the Ion. At left is Laura Neder, head of platform for the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and the Ion District. NASA/Sumer LogginsLaura Neder, head of platform for the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and the Ion District, welcomed attendees and introduced Monte Goforth, acting director of Business Development and Technology Integration at Johnson. Goforth delivered opening remarks on the value of sharing NASA’s work beyond the agency and bringing people together to support future exploration before introducing Bhakta.
Bhakta outlined how NASA is working toward long-duration human exploration of the lunar South Pole through the agency’s Moon Base Program.
As part of that effort, NASA is taking a step-by-step approach to Moon Base development. Early robotic missions and technology demonstrations will help NASA gather data about the lunar environment, test systems, and reduce risks before expanding infrastructure and human operations.
“This is probably going to be the most challenging endeavor NASA has ever undertaken,” Bhakta said.
Meeting that challenge will require collaboration between NASA and its commercial and international partners to develop solutions for operating in extreme environmental conditions.
Unlike the Apollo landing sites, areas near the lunar South Pole contain steep slopes, deep craters, and lighting conditions that change throughout the year. The Sun remains low on the horizon, creating shifting shadows that can complicate navigation and leave solar panels without sunlight for extended periods, increasing the need for energy storage and other power sources.
Because of the region’s rugged terrain, crews, rovers, and other surface systems may not always have a clear line of sight to Earth. NASA will need communications infrastructure to relay signals across the lunar South Pole.
Bhakta explained that Moon Base may not be a single cluster of connected structures. Terrain, lighting, power, and landing constraints could require habitats and other systems to be distributed across the lunar surface.
Attendees listen as Shatel Bhakta, principal systems engineer for NASA’s Moon Base Program, discusses the challenges of establishing a sustained human presence at the Moon. NASA/Sumer LogginsLunar regolith, or Moon dust, remains one of the greatest challenges. Without mitigation, the sharp and clingy substance could damage equipment and spacesuits while posing health risks to astronauts. Its electrostatic properties can also change depending on lighting and environmental conditions.
Understanding how lunar regolith behaves will be essential to ensuring crews can safely live and work on the lunar surface.
Some permanently shadowed regions near the lunar South Pole may not have received direct sunlight for billions of years and may contain water ice and other volatile materials. These resources could support future exploration, but using them will require new mobility, power, and processing systems.
The Moon will also serve as a proving ground for missions farther into the solar system. Operating on the lunar surface will help NASA learn how crews, equipment, and infrastructure perform away from Earth before future human missions to Mars.
As NASA develops these capabilities, Bhakta explained that keeping the Moon Base architecture adaptable will require understanding how individual systems connect and work together.
“Don’t deal with the technology directly,” Bhakta said. “Deal with the interfaces.”
From left, Monte Goforth, acting director of Business Development and Technology Integration at NASA’s Johnson Space Center; Shatel Bhakta, principal systems engineer for NASA’s Moon Base Program; and Laura Neder, head of platform for the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and the Ion District, pose during NASA Stories at the Ion. NASA/Sumer LogginsBuilding the Moon Base will take more than engineers and scientists. NASA will need communicators, business professionals, researchers, and people from many other fields to help solve problems and share the agency’s work.
“There are many ways to contribute,” Bhakta said. “Don’t be afraid that your skill set does not fit in.”
Moon Base build-up will offer multiple entry points for industry and international collaborators to participate, innovate, and contribute. From early demonstrations to long-term surface operations, there are multiple solicitations currently open.
Find more information at:
www.nasa.gov/moonbase-solicitations
About the AuthorSumer Loggins Share Details Last Updated Aug 11, 2026 Related Terms Explore More 5 min read NASA Completes Astronaut-Deployed Science Instrument for Lunar SurfaceNASA has declared “wrenches down” on the first completed payload designed for Artemis astronauts to…
Article 12 hours ago 3 min read NASA’s Lunar Development and Test Facility Prepares Artemis Hardware for Moon Article 5 days ago 2 min read Ames Science Stars of the Month – August 2026 Article 1 week ago Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASAMissions
Humans in Space
Climate Change
Solar System
NASA Funds 'Interworld Slingshot' Concept to Map Solar System Resources
In-situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) is going to be a critical technical component of any human expansion out into the solar system. Our first challenge with utilizing those resources, though, is finding them. We know how, at least in theory - send a probe to an asteroid, or a particular part of the Moon, and take a sample, maybe analyze that sample with some spectrographs, or send it back to Earth to be poked and prodded. The problem with this methodology is simple - it’s expensive. Sending dedicated probes to every near-Earth asteroid, or every potentially interesting site near a lunar base is prohibitively expensive. So a new NASA Institute for Advanced Concepts (NIAC) grant explores a different opportunity - using a single, relatively small spacecraft to visit multiple ISRU locations, and figure out their composition from tens of kilometers away.
NASA Shares Station Research Today Supporting Moon, Mars Tomorrow
The International Space Station has been busy throughout 2026, as it continues to be a bustling workspace for astronauts conducting a variety of scientific experiments that lay the groundwork for missions to the Moon and beyond.
NASA’s Artemis II mission in April was the first crewed flight around the Moon in more than 50 years, marking a major milestone for humanity’s return to the lunar surface. While the mission validated key systems needed for future deep space human exploration, work aboard the International Space Station continues to support those goals. Astronauts on the orbiting laboratory are testing technologies, studying how the human body adapts to long-duration spaceflight, and conducting experiments to help ensure crews can live and work safely in deep space. Research aboard the space station, coupled with Artemis and Moon Base programs, will continue to demonstrate how NASA is preparing for sustained astronaut exploration of the Moon and, eventually, Mars.
Optimizing space technologyTo view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video
ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Sophie Adenot activates the European Enhanced Exploration Exercise Device (E4D), marking the start of a two-year technology demonstration.ESA/NASAAstronauts aboard the International Space Station demonstrate and optimize innovative technologies to support exploration missions, reduce the technology footprint, and fine-tune systems ahead of travel beyond low Earth orbit.
Exercise equipment is important for long-duration spaceflight. On average, astronauts lose between 1% and 1.5% of their bone density each month while in microgravity, increasing the potential risk for fractures and other bone-related issues. Regular exercise can help counteract these effects and keep astronauts healthy. The European Enhanced Exploration Exercise Device (E4D) is a compact, versatile system now being tested aboard the space station for exploration crews. The system supports a variety of exercises, can simulate different gravity levels and may lead to even more compact exercise technology for exploration crews.
During deep space missions, astronauts may need medical care but could be too far from Earth to receive a resupply spacecraft with additional equipment. To prepare for that possibility, researchers are testing medical technologies aboard the station. One of these investigations, the Intravenous Fluid Generation – Mini (IVGEN Mini),evaluates producing intravenous (IV) fluids using the station’s potable water supply. Because commercially available IV fluids have a shelf life of only about 16 months, successful demonstrations of this technology could help meet medical needs while reducing launch mass and volume.
Medical care is one hurdle crews may face during future missions, while another is the limited time astronauts have to complete tasks that require human intervention. Robotic technologies, such as the Test facility for lab-aUtomation System in Kibo (TUSK), may help address these time constraints. This investigation studies how microgravity affects delicate robotic operations that rely on precise movement. Insights could help improve the design of future automated systems that can execute tasks independently, freeing up astronauts’ valuable time during future missions.
Studying the body in space NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams collect frozen research samples from inside the International Space Station’s Destiny laboratory module.ESA/Sophie Adenot
Astronauts also serve as test subjects. They collect biological samples, conduct medical exams, and perform scans to understand how bodies adapt to life in space. This research helps scientists and medical personnel understand the effects of spaceflight and protects crew health as missions extend farther into the solar system.
Past research shows weightlessness during spaceflight can sometimes disrupt astronauts’ normal blood flow, which may increase health risks for conditions, such as blood clots.The Spaceflight Thrombosis and Risk Factors (Venous Haemostasis) experiment examines changes in blood flow to identify unique physiological correlations and create preventative measures for at-risk crew members.
Astronauts also may experience changes to their cardiovascular and respiratory systems during spaceflight, which could affect blood pressure regulation. Research with the Causal Analysis of Cardiorespiratory Coupling on the ISS (CARDIOBREATH) uses the Bio-Monitor “smart shirt” to track heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and activity during exercise sessions aboard the orbiting complex. Results will improve understanding of cardiovascular health in microgravity and inform treatments for cardiorespiratory risks during and after long-duration missions.
Maintaining mental health in space is as important as physical health. Prolonged isolation and confinement can impact a crew member’s sleep, morale, and decision-making. The Mind/Body Practices for Deep Space Exploration (RelaxPro) experiment evaluates non-invasive practices, such as meditation, to develop a structured system to reduce stress and improve sleep on future missions.
Spacecraft are a critical aspect of deep space missions, providing shelter from the harsh environment of space, along with oxygen, water, and other life-support systems. Testing systems aboard the International Space Station allows researchers to refine technologies for next generation spacecraft traveling beyond low Earth orbit.
The Fiber-optic Active Dosimeter (Lumina) demonstrates real-time radiation monitoring using optical fibers that darken when exposed to radiation. Monitoring ionizing radiation keeps astronauts safe and remains one of the key challenges for future deep space exploration.
Many spacecraft use cryogenic, or extremely cold, fuels for propulsion. These fuels must remain cold to stay in liquid form, but temperature fluctuations in space can cause them to slowly evaporate and escape the tank, affecting fuel efficiency. The Zero Boil-Off Tank Noncondensables (ZBOT-NC)investigation evaluates how gases that do not liquify at low temperatures impact pressure control, evaporation, and condensation rates inside propellant tanks. Data from this experiment will help validate models and support the design of more efficient cryogenic fuel storage systems.
As the crew’s living environment, the spacecraft must also be monitored for microbial activity to help ensure a safe and healthy habitat. The Genomic Enumeration of Antibiotic Resistance in Space (GEARS) investigation surveys the space station for antibiotic-resistant organisms to better understand how bacteria may adapt in space. The study uses DNA sequencing techniques to advance onsite identification and diagnostic capabilities that will be important for future missions.
International Space Station science still is buzzing for the remainder of 2026. To learn more about ongoing research aboard the space station, visit:
Share Details Last Updated Aug 11, 2026 Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASAInternational Space Station
Space Station Research and Technology
Space Station Research Results
Humans In Space
NASA Shares Station Research Today Supporting Moon, Mars Tomorrow
The International Space Station has been busy throughout 2026, as it continues to be a bustling workspace for astronauts conducting a variety of scientific experiments that lay the groundwork for missions to the Moon and beyond.
NASA’s Artemis II mission in April was the first crewed flight around the Moon in more than 50 years, marking a major milestone for humanity’s return to the lunar surface. While the mission validated key systems needed for future deep space human exploration, work aboard the International Space Station continues to support those goals. Astronauts on the orbiting laboratory are testing technologies, studying how the human body adapts to long-duration spaceflight, and conducting experiments to help ensure crews can live and work safely in deep space. Research aboard the space station, coupled with Artemis and Moon Base programs, will continue to demonstrate how NASA is preparing for sustained astronaut exploration of the Moon and, eventually, Mars.
Optimizing space technologyTo view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video
ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Sophie Adenot activates the European Enhanced Exploration Exercise Device (E4D), marking the start of a two-year technology demonstration.ESA/NASAAstronauts aboard the International Space Station demonstrate and optimize innovative technologies to support exploration missions, reduce the technology footprint, and fine-tune systems ahead of travel beyond low Earth orbit.
Exercise equipment is important for long-duration spaceflight. On average, astronauts lose between 1% and 1.5% of their bone density each month while in microgravity, increasing the potential risk for fractures and other bone-related issues. Regular exercise can help counteract these effects and keep astronauts healthy. The European Enhanced Exploration Exercise Device (E4D) is a compact, versatile system now being tested aboard the space station for exploration crews. The system supports a variety of exercises, can simulate different gravity levels and may lead to even more compact exercise technology for exploration crews.
During deep space missions, astronauts may need medical care but could be too far from Earth to receive a resupply spacecraft with additional equipment. To prepare for that possibility, researchers are testing medical technologies aboard the station. One of these investigations, the Intravenous Fluid Generation – Mini (IVGEN Mini),evaluates producing intravenous (IV) fluids using the station’s potable water supply. Because commercially available IV fluids have a shelf life of only about 16 months, successful demonstrations of this technology could help meet medical needs while reducing launch mass and volume.
Medical care is one hurdle crews may face during future missions, while another is the limited time astronauts have to complete tasks that require human intervention. Robotic technologies, such as the Test facility for lab-aUtomation System in Kibo (TUSK), may help address these time constraints. This investigation studies how microgravity affects delicate robotic operations that rely on precise movement. Insights could help improve the design of future automated systems that can execute tasks independently, freeing up astronauts’ valuable time during future missions.
Studying the body in space NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams collect frozen research samples from inside the International Space Station’s Destiny laboratory module.ESA/Sophie AdenotAstronauts also serve as test subjects. They collect biological samples, conduct medical exams, and perform scans to understand how bodies adapt to life in space. This research helps scientists and medical personnel understand the effects of spaceflight and protects crew health as missions extend farther into the solar system.
Past research shows weightlessness during spaceflight can sometimes disrupt astronauts’ normal blood flow, which may increase health risks for conditions, such as blood clots.The Spaceflight Thrombosis and Risk Factors (Venous Haemostasis) experiment examines changes in blood flow to identify unique physiological correlations and create preventative measures for at-risk crew members.
Astronauts also may experience changes to their cardiovascular and respiratory systems during spaceflight, which could affect blood pressure regulation. Research with the Causal Analysis of Cardiorespiratory Coupling on the ISS (CARDIOBREATH) uses the Bio-Monitor “smart shirt” to track heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and activity during exercise sessions aboard the orbiting complex. Results will improve understanding of cardiovascular health in microgravity and inform treatments for cardiorespiratory risks during and after long-duration missions.
Maintaining mental health in space is as important as physical health. Prolonged isolation and confinement can impact a crew member’s sleep, morale, and decision-making. The Mind/Body Practices for Deep Space Exploration (RelaxPro) experiment evaluates non-invasive practices, such as meditation, to develop a structured system to reduce stress and improve sleep on future missions.
Spacecraft are a critical aspect of deep space missions, providing shelter from the harsh environment of space, along with oxygen, water, and other life-support systems. Testing systems aboard the International Space Station allows researchers to refine technologies for next generation spacecraft traveling beyond low Earth orbit.
The Fiber-optic Active Dosimeter (Lumina) demonstrates real-time radiation monitoring using optical fibers that darken when exposed to radiation. Monitoring ionizing radiation keeps astronauts safe and remains one of the key challenges for future deep space exploration.
Many spacecraft use cryogenic, or extremely cold, fuels for propulsion. These fuels must remain cold to stay in liquid form, but temperature fluctuations in space can cause them to slowly evaporate and escape the tank, affecting fuel efficiency. The Zero Boil-Off Tank Noncondensables (ZBOT-NC)investigation evaluates how gases that do not liquify at low temperatures impact pressure control, evaporation, and condensation rates inside propellant tanks. Data from this experiment will help validate models and support the design of more efficient cryogenic fuel storage systems.
As the crew’s living environment, the spacecraft must also be monitored for microbial activity to help ensure a safe and healthy habitat. The Genomic Enumeration of Antibiotic Resistance in Space (GEARS) investigation surveys the space station for antibiotic-resistant organisms to better understand how bacteria may adapt in space. The study uses DNA sequencing techniques to advance onsite identification and diagnostic capabilities that will be important for future missions.
International Space Station science still is buzzing for the remainder of 2026. To learn more about ongoing research aboard the space station, visit:
Share Details Last Updated Aug 11, 2026 Related Terms Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASAInternational Space Station
Space Station Research and Technology
Space Station Research Results
Humans In Space
Rare Total Solar Eclipse-Perseid Meteor Shower Double-Header August 12th
The only total solar eclipse of the year coincides with the Perseid meteor shower. Here's what you need to know to watch the eclipse.
The post Rare Total Solar Eclipse-Perseid Meteor Shower Double-Header August 12th appeared first on Sky & Telescope.
A total solar eclipse is coming to Europe
When the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, it casts a shadow onto Earth's surface. For people in the darkest part of this shadow, the face of the Sun is totally blocked out, and its wispy atmosphere becomes visible.
On Wednesday 12 August, such a shadow will cross Greenland, Iceland, northeastern Portugal and Spain. With this being the first total eclipse visible from mainland Spain since 1905, the European Space Agency (ESA) has decided to do something special.
ESA’s live broadcast from the Observatorio Astrofísico de Javalambre will allow anyone to experience this rare phenomenon from anywhere in the world. Meanwhile, the Agency is working with the City and University of León to organise a free in-person event, inviting people to come together for a day of interactive workshops, talks and live observations.
<p><a href="https://apod.nasa.gov/apod
Scientists are closer than ever to understanding the power of the vagus nerve
The vagus nerve is the autonomic nervous system’s highway, connecting every major organ
Has science finally made up its mind about coffee’s health benefits?
Doctors used to warn coffee drinkers. Now research reassures them
The birth of modern life was fueled by poop, new theory proposes
The Cambrian explosion is a critical moment for life on Earth—and it may have been all about poop
Humans’ sense of smell is still evolving
A genetic study shows how smell capabilities were maintained in a hunter-gatherer population
First-of-its-kind clinic treats psychedelic side effects
As psychedelic therapies expand, new clinics treat uncommon long-term harms
Sophie Adenot’s first spacewalk
ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot will take part in her first-ever spacewalk during U.S. Spacewalk 97. Together with NASA astronaut Anil Menon, she will replace a Space-to-Ground antenna on the International Space Station, a critical communications system that enables high-speed data and voice links between Mission Control in Houston and the space station.
Watch it live on ESA WebTV and the ESA’s YouTube channel. Coverage begins at 13:00 CEST, with the spacewalk scheduled to begin at approximately 14:35 CEST.
Dust and water spotted close to giant black hole
Using the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, an international team of astronomers have discovered that dust and water can form and survive surprisingly close to the supermassive black hole at the centre of our Milky Way galaxy. The observations reveal that the evolved star IRS 3 continues to enrich its surroundings with newly formed material despite the intense radiation environment around Sagittarius A*.
Curiosity Blog, Sols 4968-4974: Rock Climbing Towards the Discontinuity
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Curiosity Blog, Sols 4968-4974: Rock Climbing Towards the Discontinuity NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity acquired this image, a frame of the “Longquimay” mosaic showing fine-scale sedimentary textures in a bedrock block near the supersurface, using its Mars Hand Lens Imager (MAHLI), located on the turret at the end of the rover’s robotic arm. Curiosity acquired the image on Aug. 1, 2026 — Sol 4972, or Martian day 4,972 of the Mars Science Laboratory mission — at 23:35:43 UTC. NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS
Written by Lucy Lim, Planetary Scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
Earth planning date: Friday, July 31, 2026
As mentioned in the previous blog, Curiosity has been exploring a large-scale feature in Gale’s sedimentary record suspected to be an “erosional supersurface.” The “supersurface” represents a period in time when a net depositional environment changed to a net erosional one before returning to a depositional regime, thus producing a discontinuity in the rock record. The erosion can involve wind, water, or both. Sometimes there are clues about these environmental changes in the layers below and above the supersurface. So far we’ve been seeing some patterns that look like aeolian features and also some “lens” deposits that sometimes appear consistent with fluvial origins. We need higher-resolution imaging of these features.
This week Curiosity came within detailed imaging range of a section of the “Cerro Paine Grande” vertical exposure just below the candidate supersurface before climbing on top of it. Mastcam was the star of the show on both planning days this week, capturing large stereo mosaics of the vertical face of the outcrop and a 360-degree panorama after the rover climbed on top of it.
NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity acquired this image, showing the rover arm in action in the “Longquimay” workspace at the top of a steep climb. Curiosity captured the image using its Right Navigation Camera on Aug. 2, 2026 — Sol 4972, or Martian day 4,972 of the Mars Science Laboratory mission — at 00:49:52 UTC. NASA/JPL-Caltech
Roving to the top took full advantage of Curiosity’s climbing capabilities, leaving the rover at an approximate 24-degree tilt in its final parking spot. The rover planners managed to reach the right posture for contact science at the same time — quite a feat, and one that approached the mission’s contact science tilt record of 27 degrees!
Meanwhile, MAHLI and our geochemical instruments provided detailed characterization of the rock layers beneath the discontinuity. I was the Geology and Mineralogy Theme Lead for the Sol 4968 (Monday) planning cycle, during which “Puyehue” in the light-toned bedrock block of the workspace was co-targeted with APXS, MAHLI, and ChemCam LIBS. The other two targeted LIBS observations in the plan went to a similar-looking nearby bedrock block (“Lago Palena”) and an intriguing layered block off to the side of the workspace (“Piedras Juntas”). Another APXS measurement went to a sand target, “Cormudesi,” which will help us assess the consistency of sand compositions along the rover’s traverse.
In the Sol 4972 workspace atop the slope, the bedrock was sharply divided between a smooth bedding-parallel surface on the local top of the outcrop and the darker-toned, rougher, angled exposure of the same rocks. The light-toned top surface was measured by MAHLI, APXS, and the LIBS at target “Sierra de Sangre,” whereas the darker-toned laminated face was targeted by APXS and MAHLI at “Laguna del Laja.” The fine-scale sedimentary structures in the textured material were also documented by a MAHLI mosaic (“Longquimay”) supported by Mastcam M100 imaging.
Rounding out the week’s science observations were several long-distance ChemCam RMI mosaics on more distant targets such as sedimentary structures above the rover’s current stratigraphic position, and finally our regular cadence measurements of the modern Martian environment, including atmospheric opacity and a ChemCam passive-sky survey to monitor abundances of minor atmospheric gases.
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Curiosity Blog, Sols 4968-4974: Rock Climbing Towards the Discontinuity
- Curiosity Home
- Science
- News and Features
- Multimedia
- Mars Missions
- Mars Home
3 min read
Curiosity Blog, Sols 4968-4974: Rock Climbing Towards the Discontinuity NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity acquired this image, a frame of the “Longquimay” mosaic showing fine-scale sedimentary textures in a bedrock block near the supersurface, using its Mars Hand Lens Imager (MAHLI), located on the turret at the end of the rover’s robotic arm. Curiosity acquired the image on Aug. 1, 2026 — Sol 4972, or Martian day 4,972 of the Mars Science Laboratory mission — at 23:35:43 UTC. NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSSWritten by Lucy Lim, Planetary Scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
Earth planning date: Friday, July 31, 2026
As mentioned in the previous blog, Curiosity has been exploring a large-scale feature in Gale’s sedimentary record suspected to be an “erosional supersurface.” The “supersurface” represents a period in time when a net depositional environment changed to a net erosional one before returning to a depositional regime, thus producing a discontinuity in the rock record. The erosion can involve wind, water, or both. Sometimes there are clues about these environmental changes in the layers below and above the supersurface. So far we’ve been seeing some patterns that look like aeolian features and also some “lens” deposits that sometimes appear consistent with fluvial origins. We need higher-resolution imaging of these features.
This week Curiosity came within detailed imaging range of a section of the “Cerro Paine Grande” vertical exposure just below the candidate supersurface before climbing on top of it. Mastcam was the star of the show on both planning days this week, capturing large stereo mosaics of the vertical face of the outcrop and a 360-degree panorama after the rover climbed on top of it.
NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity acquired this image, showing the rover arm in action in the “Longquimay” workspace at the top of a steep climb. Curiosity captured the image using its Right Navigation Camera on Aug. 2, 2026 — Sol 4972, or Martian day 4,972 of the Mars Science Laboratory mission — at 00:49:52 UTC. NASA/JPL-CaltechRoving to the top took full advantage of Curiosity’s climbing capabilities, leaving the rover at an approximate 24-degree tilt in its final parking spot. The rover planners managed to reach the right posture for contact science at the same time — quite a feat, and one that approached the mission’s contact science tilt record of 27 degrees!
Meanwhile, MAHLI and our geochemical instruments provided detailed characterization of the rock layers beneath the discontinuity. I was the Geology and Mineralogy Theme Lead for the Sol 4968 (Monday) planning cycle, during which “Puyehue” in the light-toned bedrock block of the workspace was co-targeted with APXS, MAHLI, and ChemCam LIBS. The other two targeted LIBS observations in the plan went to a similar-looking nearby bedrock block (“Lago Palena”) and an intriguing layered block off to the side of the workspace (“Piedras Juntas”). Another APXS measurement went to a sand target, “Cormudesi,” which will help us assess the consistency of sand compositions along the rover’s traverse.
In the Sol 4972 workspace atop the slope, the bedrock was sharply divided between a smooth bedding-parallel surface on the local top of the outcrop and the darker-toned, rougher, angled exposure of the same rocks. The light-toned top surface was measured by MAHLI, APXS, and the LIBS at target “Sierra de Sangre,” whereas the darker-toned laminated face was targeted by APXS and MAHLI at “Laguna del Laja.” The fine-scale sedimentary structures in the textured material were also documented by a MAHLI mosaic (“Longquimay”) supported by Mastcam M100 imaging.
Rounding out the week’s science observations were several long-distance ChemCam RMI mosaics on more distant targets such as sedimentary structures above the rover’s current stratigraphic position, and finally our regular cadence measurements of the modern Martian environment, including atmospheric opacity and a ChemCam passive-sky survey to monitor abundances of minor atmospheric gases.
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APOD: 2026 August 11 – Six Moons of Saturn
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Six Moons of Saturn
Explanation: How many moons does Saturn have? While the total will likely continue to grow, as of June 2026 the ringed gas giant had 293 confirmed moons. That’s easily more than any other planet of the Solar System, including ruling gas giant Jupiter with a mere 115 confirmed moons. Most of Saturn’s known moons are small, irregular satellites. Many are only few kilometers to a fraction of a kilometer across and grouped in tilted outer orbits. Six of its largest satellites can be seen here, though, in this sharp telescopic Saturnian family portrait taken on August 5. Larger than Earth’s Moon and even slightly larger than inner planet Mercury, Titan, with a diameter of 5,150 kilometers, is at lower right. You can also spot icy major moons Mimas, Tethys, Enceladus, Dione, and Rhea in the frame. Saturn’s first known natural satellite, Titan was discovered in 1655 by Dutch astronomer Christiaan Huygens. During the space age Voyager and Cassini discoveries have added to the swelling ranks of Saturnian moons.
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APOD: 2026 August 11 – Six Moons of Saturn
APOD
Astronomy Picture of the Day
Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.
Six Moons of SaturnExplanation: How many moons does Saturn have? While the total will likely continue to grow, as of June 2026 the ringed gas giant had 293 confirmed moons. That’s easily more than any other planet of the Solar System, including ruling gas giant Jupiter with a mere 115 confirmed moons. Most of Saturn’s known moons are small, irregular satellites. Many are only few kilometers to a fraction of a kilometer across and grouped in tilted outer orbits. Six of its largest satellites can be seen here, though, in this sharp telescopic Saturnian family portrait taken on August 5. Larger than Earth’s Moon and even slightly larger than inner planet Mercury, Titan, with a diameter of 5,150 kilometers, is at lower right. You can also spot icy major moons Mimas, Tethys, Enceladus, Dione, and Rhea in the frame. Saturn’s first known natural satellite, Titan was discovered in 1655 by Dutch astronomer Christiaan Huygens. During the space age Voyager and Cassini discoveries have added to the swelling ranks of Saturnian moons.
NASA Stream: August 12 Total Solar Eclipse.
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Yesterday’s Image APOD: 2026 August 10 – Three Galaxy Pairs
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