Opportunity Mars discovers clay minerals

Kirkwood consists of small, spherical structures distributed in a lattice. Scientists initially believed that he had discovered hematite, which he dubbed "blueberries" because of its appearance. However, Squines pointed out that these "blueberries" have a very different composition from the hematite found at the beginning of the "opportunity" mission. Research on the two exposed layers is still in its early stages. With the aid of an X-ray spectrometer, Opportunity will identify the chemical elements found in Whitewater Lake and Kirkwood and learn more about their mineralogical components. The research team needed to determine the order and location of the rock formations and then extrapolate the ages.

It is not yet possible to determine whether these two exposed layers are related to the period before or after the formation of the “Forgetting” pit. Regardless, "Opportunity" will continue to bring scientists unexpected discoveries. Its twin brother, Courage, landed on the other side of Mars, and was forced to retire in 2010 due to the dust and cold temperatures of Mars. In contrast, "Opportunity" has shown more tenacious vitality and continued to carry out inspection missions.