Perseverance Rover Begins Ascent of Jezero Crater

NASA’s Perseverance rover has commenced a challenging ascent to the rim of Jezero Crater after 3.5 years exploring its base. The mission, targeting a 1,000-foot (305-meter) climb, aims to collect rock samples that may reveal insights into Mars' ancient climate and the potential for past life. During its time on the crater floor, Perseverance has gathered 22 rock core samples, and NASA is exploring methods for their return to Earth. Steven Lee from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory noted that the bedrock at the crater's rim could provide critical information on the formation of rocky planets like Mars and Earth. The rover will face steep slopes of up to 23 degrees and rocky terrain during its months-long journey. Findings from this mission could not only enhance our understanding of Mars but also shed light on Earth's geological history.