The Curiosity rover, which is continuing its work on the surface of the red planet Mars, caused the rock to break apart as it drove over a rock. When it analyzed the shattered rock, it made an unexpected discovery: crystals of pure sulfur were embedded in the rock.

Although sulfur-containing compounds have been found on Mars before, this is the first time sulfur has been found in its pure form. According to NASA, pure sulfur crystals only form under certain conditions, and there is no single event in the region’s history that would allow for the formation of these crystals.

“It shouldn’t be there”

Gediz Vallis Canal The vehicle, which was surveying the area known as , shattered one of the rocks in the area on May 30. Information from the vehicle that subsequently examined the samples revealed the presence of pure sulfur. Curiosity scientists are working on the project Aswin Vasavadasaying that finding an area full of rocks made of pure sulfur is like finding an oasis in the desert, “It shouldn’t be there, so now we have to explain it. Finding strange and unexpected things is what makes planetary exploration so exciting.” he said.

The team working on the project After seeing the yellow crystals He examined the structures closely using the camera on Curiosity’s robotic arm. The rover then took a sample from another rock nearby. The data from the vehicle on the rover, which can analyze the structure of rocks and soil, was also confirmed by studies using NASA’s Alpha Particle X-Ray Spectometer.