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NASA's Mars rover Curiosity acquired this image of the “Nevado Sajama 2” drill hole using its Mars Hand Lens Imager (MAHLI), located on the turret at the end of the rover's robotic arm. Curiosity captured the image Feb. 9, 2026 — Sol 4803, or Martian day 4,803 of the Mars Science Laboratory mission — at 07:41:32 UTC.NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS
NASA's Mars rover Curiosity has finished its scientific work at a drill site called "Nevado Sajama 2." This important work occurred during a specific interval on Mars, from sol 4804 to sol 4811. The rover spent this week at Gale Crater to complete the final tasks at this drill site. Now, the mission is officially starting its last phase of exploring a unique geological formation known as the "boxwork." This formation gets its name from the distinct, box-like patterns of rock that cover the area.
The science team on Earth has carefully organized their exploration of this area into four distinct phases. This structured plan ensures that they study every aspect of the environment in the correct order. Each phase has a specific goal that builds upon the data and knowledge gathered in the previous stage. By following this methodical approach, the team ensures that no critical details are missed during the investigation.
This initial phase occurred between Martian days 4534 and 4570, covering the months of May and June 2025. The primary goal during this time was to make the very first observations of the boxwork unit. The team used the rover's cameras and sensors to look closely at the area from a safe distance. After studying these initial views in detail, the scientists made a crucial decision regarding the next steps. They determined that it was the perfect time to use the rover's drill to take a sample from the bedrock. They selected a location named "Altadena" for this first deep dive into the ancient rock.
The second phase took place from sol 4571 to sol 4599, running from June through July 2025. During this period, the team focused on collecting additional data to understand the broader geological context of the region. They gathered observations of the boxwork unit while traveling between the first drill site at Altadena and the main section of the boxwork area. Along the journey, the rover stopped to examine a very distinctive feature that the team named "Volcán Peña Blanca." This stop was essential because it helped scientists understand the layout of the landscape and the complex relationships between different rock layers.
The third phase served as the heart of the entire boxwork campaign. It lasted from sol 4600 to sol 4805, spanning from July 2025 through February 2026. During this long and productive time, the team made numerous detailed observations of the terrain. They studied the ridges and hollows that were the most clearly defined within the boxwork unit. By learning more about these specific shapes and structures, the team was able to select the best spots for drilling again. They ultimately chose two new targets: a hollow area named "Valle de la Luna" and a ridge called "Nevado Sajama."
We are now kicking off the fourth and final phase of this campaign. This phase covers sol 4805 and continues as needed into the future, starting in February 2026. The main goals for this stage are to take final measurements of the ridges and hollows. The team will also explore the boundaries where the boxwork unit meets the neighboring geologic units to the east and south. These boundaries are critically important because they reveal how the rock layers have changed over billions of years. Once this final exploration is finished, the rover will wrap up the boxwork campaign. Afterward, Curiosity will continue its long, steady journey climbing up Mount Sharp. It will move toward a recently named area called "Valle Grande."
After finishing its work at the Nevado Sajama drill, Curiosity began a new drive. The rover moved northeast along one of the wide ridges in the area. From this new position, the rover has a clear view of the ridges and hollows to the east. The science team has identified several specific features they are eager to study in detail.
One of the most interesting targets is a hollow that appears to have unique bedrock on its floor. Data taken from orbit suggests that the rock inside this hollow is different from its surroundings and definitely worth exploring. Additionally, the team has spotted a particularly narrow ridge nearby. This ridge is special because it has many smaller ridges branching off it, resembling the branches of a tree. The team has given this unique feature a name: "Los Flamencos."
The images taken from the rover's current position will help the team decide if they should drive to one or both of these features. These photos are essential for planning the exact path the rover will take next week. While the team studies the landscape, Curiosity will also collect data on the bedrock directly in front of the rover. This includes planned observations using instruments named APXS and MAHLI. The team has chosen specific targets named "Mollecita" and "Monte Cielo" for these detailed checks.
The drilling activities over the last few weeks produced a wealth of wonderful data. The team is very excited to be back on the Martian surface, driving through the boxwork road. They feel great about beginning this final phase of the boxwork unit campaign. The success of the previous phases has given them the confidence to finish the job properly. By the end of this phase, the team will have a complete picture of this fascinating geological area. This information will be vital for understanding the history of water and climate on Mars.
The rover is now ready for the next leg of its mission. As it moves toward "Valle Grande," it will carry the knowledge gained from the boxwork exploration. This journey up Mount Sharp is a testament to human curiosity and advanced engineering. Every step the rover takes brings us closer to understanding the red planet. The data collected will be studied by scientists for years to come. It helps answer big questions about whether Mars was once habitable. The transition from the boxwork area to the new valley marks a new chapter in the mission.
The decision to end the boxwork campaign after these final steps was not made lightly. The team wanted to ensure every critical rock type was studied thoroughly. The four phases allowed for a systematic approach that left no major questions unanswered. Now, with the boxwork exploration complete, the focus shifts back to the long climb ahead. The "Valle Grande" area holds new mysteries and potential discoveries for the future. The team is prepared to apply the lessons learned from the boxwork to the new terrain.
This structured approach ensures that the mission remains efficient and scientifically productive. Curiosity continues to prove itself as a powerful tool for discovery in the harsh environment of Mars. The data from the "Nevado Sajama" and "Valle de la Luna" sites will be analyzed in depth. Scientists will look for clues about ancient water flow and mineral formation. The images of "Los Flamencos" will provide a new perspective on ridge formation. Each piece of data adds to the growing puzzle of Mars.
The rover's ability to adapt and change its plans based on new findings is a key strength. The team on Earth works around the clock to interpret the data as it comes in. This collaboration between Earth and space is what makes the mission a success. As the rover moves forward, the legacy of the boxwork exploration will remain a key part of the Mars Science Laboratory story. The data will eventually help humanity understand the history of our neighboring planet.
NASA’s Curiosity rover at the base of Mount SharpNASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS