IMAGE DETAILS

Mars Report Ref: MIA030

Report date: July-August 2017

Research Status: Open - Possible mechanical artefact

Description: C-Shaped Object
Approximate size: 5 cm
Mission: Curiosity Rover
Location: Gale Crater

Found by: Rami Bar Ilan

Image date: Sol 817, Nov 2014
Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS

Graphic/image editing: M. J. Craig

Image source: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/spaceimages/images/largesize/PIA19066_hires.jpg

​OBSERVATIONS

A baffling one insofar as this very angular object is so very close to the Curiosity camera. Was the precision shape caused by the Rover wheel slicing into it perhaps, if indeed it drove over this spot? The mission scientists obviously must have seen and discussed it. It's just a shame they did not consider that the public might be curious about what it was and shared their conclusions with us.

POTENTIAL FOR AN ARTIFICIAL OBJECT

​A very symmetrically proportionate ‘C’ shape. Also, nearby is a triangular-shaped fragment and one or two other pieces that might suggest a pile of mechanical debris.

COMMON EXPLANATION

Odd-shaped rock or sediment. Angular shape perhaps caused by the Rover wheel.

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