NASA Perseverance @nasa_perseverance@mastodon.muage.org

I used this abrading bit to scour a small hole in this rock, where I could leave it behind. On to more science ahead!

Bonus: if you can overlap these images with 3D vision like me (or can use a stereo viewing device), you can get a 3D view of this Martian art installation.

This particular drill bit was installed before launch, to close out the drill and keep the inside protected. To keep my science clean and clear, I’m leaving it aside before I start to collect samples with new, pristine drill bits.

I brought ten drill bits to Mars. Most are for collecting samples; others, like this one, are for abrading rocks (grinding away the outer surface). That’s all part of getting to the scientific clues hidden inside the rocks.

What’s this thing, and why is it sticking out of a Mars rock? (And no, it’s not a lightsaber handle.) Let me explain: 🧵

See the full resolution image: http://go.nasa.gov/2UwSWBa

Up ahead: the target spot where I plan to collect my first-ever sample of Martian rock. I have everything I need with me to get the job done. First is to collect detailed, close-up science of the rock, then comes the coring.

Why and how I’ll sample here: http://go.nasa.gov/3isTj7P

I have a whole toolkit at the end of my arm, and I’ve been using it to zero in on the most interesting rocks for signs of ancient life. Read more: http://go.nasa.gov/3z9EGNA

Tune in tomorrow 7/21, 10 am PDT/1 pm EDT for latest results: http://go.nasa.gov/3ojDWkj

Since I kicked into full-on science mode about six weeks ago, I’ve been cruising across Jezero Crater collecting data. Next week, join scientists and engineers from my team @NASAJPL@twitter.com to hear about what I’ve found, and how I’ll take my first sample.

More: http://go.nasa.gov/2Te3W5Q

Check out this patch of rock I found: looks kind of like garden pavers, and is probably exposed bedrock. Material like this, from the early days of this ancient lakebed, can help capture what that lake was like. Spending a few days investigating…

http://go.nasa.gov/309utlI

Here's a look are our latest locations.

Interactive map: http://go.nasa.gov/where-is-perseverance

My science team is poring over these color images from the #MarsHelicopter’s latest flight. Ingenuity crossed over a region that would be tricky for me to drive on, adding a new perspective to the picture of Jezero Crater that I’m piecing together.

More: http://go.nasa.gov/3AF5lDh

LIVE TALK: Mars has seen generations of robots like me through the decades. Dr. Lori Glaze, @NASA@twitter.com's Director of Planetary Science, will share highlights of the past, present & future of Mars exploration on July 10th, 11am PT/2pm ET/1800 GMT. Register here: https://aacpl.librarycalendar.com/events/stem-saturday-mars-exploration

This animation gives you a look at my sample handling system inside. I use my sample handling arm to hold the tubes upright and show them to the “CacheCam” (inside the opening on the right).

Lots of first-time activities before I start drilling. I recently ran one sample tube through inspection, sealing and storing. It’s a good dry run for my first rock core – plus, this “witness tube” will help keep my science legit.

Learn how: http://go.nasa.gov/3xo7KjO

With a little help from my friends on Earth, I’d like to say happy birthday to @RingoStarrMusic, who wished me well when I landed on Mars. May your day be filled with #PeaceAndLove. https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1412765470713958401

I’m getting a good feel for driving, and starting to take charge more to find my own way. By mapping while I drive, I may be able to cover up to 5 or 6 times more distance in a day. Good, since there’s so much to get to!

More on my “AutoNav” mode: http://go.nasa.gov/3hjxJC4 https://t.co/LGmjAFcOTF

The map and link below give a good sense of where I am now (“Seitah-N”) and where I’m headed, long term.

https://twitter.com/NASAPersevere/status/1403400394491895830

I’ve made it to my next lookout, overlooking a spot we’re calling “Séítah.” It’s an area of dunes with some good science targets in and around it. I’ll spy a few from here, doing science from afar, then circle around and keep exploring.

My location: http://go.nasa.gov/3sZ16NO

If there’s one thing I love almost as much as rocks, it’s photography. In 128 days on Mars, I’ve sent back over 100K photos, thanks to the orbiters overhead relaying my data to Earth.

📷 All images: http://go.nasa.gov/2L6tFta
👍 Your weekly favorites: http://go.nasa.gov/3s4mRg7

Lots of people ask: how do rovers like me and @MarsCuriosity@twitter.com take our own selfies? It’s not as easy as a quick smartphone snap. See how it’s done with the help of my team back on Earth: http://go.nasa.gov/35PjDTJ