NASA’s perseverance discovers the mysterious blackstone called “Skull Hill” on Mars | Science and Environment News
NASA’s Perseverance Rovers are currently exploring the edge of the Jezero crater on Mars, a surprising new discovery – an unusual dark rock now officially known as “Skull Hill.” This angular jagged formation stands out on a lighter tone terrain called Anson Harbor, located on the downhill of “Witch Hazel Hill”.
Captured by the rover’s powerful MASTCAM-Z imaging system, Skeleton Mountain is considered to be a “floating” rock, which may have originated from different locations and transported to where it is now, possibly due to impact or geological transfer. Its solid surface has small pits that may be caused by erosion or wind searches, which further distinguishes it from the surrounding Martian landscape.
In addition to the plot, nearby soil is dotted with tiny spherical particles called spherical shapes. These features previously fascinated scientists with their mysterious origins and unique shapes. While the dark tone of Skull Hill resembles the meteorites found in Gale Crater previously found in NASA’s Curious Rovers, the initial data suggests.
Chemical analysis by the super camera instrument of the rover showed that Skull Mountain did not share the typical iron core components of meteorites. Instead, scientists believe this may be igneous rocks formed by cooled magma or lava, rich in minerals such as olivine and pyroxene, which are common in volcanic strata found on Earth and Mars.
By analyzing the mineral content and texture of Skull Mountain and surrounding rocks, the researchers hope to uncover the geological history of the Jezero crater. Whether these rocks are formed by volcanic activity or abandoned by major impact events, their composition can hold critical information about Mars’ past environmental conditions and whether it is suitable for microbial lifespan.
Perseverance Rovers’ ongoing work on Witch Hazel Hill is helping to establish a clearer red planet complex geological schedule. Each discovery adds valuable insights as NASA lays the foundation for future human exploration of Mars, which makes discoveries like Skeleton Mountain more than just curious rocks, a place where ancient planetary puzzles are waiting to be resolved.
