Sunday 9th September Sol 34

Just like in a terrestrial laboratory we have to analyse standards of known composition. Before we publish important new data about Mars and its atmosphere we want to be sure as we can that the data is as accurate as possible.       To test the Alpha particle source X-ray Spectrometer we are putting the robotic arm up to a small terrestrial basaltic calibration target on the left side of Curiosity.  Soon we will analyse rocks in Gale Crater with both the ChemCam and APXS, the combination of these complementary techniques will give us a great range of elements.  In the meantime path is being plotted with images from Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) to get us to GlenElg – downhill all the way, but a very gentle slope.  The combination of MRO data and images is vital for Curiosity.