NASA · Space

Curiosity Rover Reaches 5,000 Martian Days on Mars

NASA's Curiosity rover has surpassed 1 kilometer in elevation and completed its 5,000th Martian day (sol). The rover is examining a large, wind-formed ripple named "Chocolatal."

Curiosity has climbed over 1 kilometer in elevation from its Gale Crater landing site, far exceeding Spirit rover's 106-meter climb. Its 5,000th sol was celebrated on August 29, 2026.

The rover is investigating "Chocolatal," a ripple, to determine if it is a "transverse aeolian ridge" (TAR). This study aims to understand its composition and formation.

During its approach, Curiosity analyzed bedrock and rock coatings using its ChemCam LIBS instrument. Mastcam and ChemCam RMI mosaics studied layers in buttes and distant ripples.

Curiosity then positioned itself within Chocolatal for contact science. Plans included MAHLI mosaics of the trench wall to study layering and grain size.

Further analysis involved APXS measurements of the ripple's surface and ChemCam LIBS on Chocolatal's features. Other activities included Mastcam mosaics and atmospheric surveys.

With 5,000 sols of accomplishments, the Curiosity team anticipates continued scientific discoveries.

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