Testing Rover Science Protocols to Identify Possible Biosignatures on Mars: Achieving Sampling Goals Under a Highly...

Area of Science:

• Planetary Science
• Astrobiology
• Geology

Background:

• Mars rover missions require efficient science operations planning.
• Identifying sites with habitability and biosignatures is a key mission goal.
• Decision-making protocols impact data acquisition and sampling strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test two science operation methods for Mars rover missions.
• To evaluate planning protocols for data acquisition and decision-making.
• To inform efficient sampling location choices for habitability and biosignature research.

Main Methods:

• Field testing at a Mars analog site in Utah.
• Comparing a preplanned tactical day scenario with a fixed sol path scenario.
• Analyzing science return, cost savings, and sample collection efficiency.

Main Results:

• Preplanning sol paths did not yield cost savings or improve science return.
• Optimal biologically relevant sample collection was not enhanced by preplanning.
• Subtle facies variations necessitate systematic observations, as orbital resolution is insufficient.
• Spectral data provided chemical insights but did not guide traverse alterations.
• Terrain must be strategically accounted for in science planning.

Conclusions:

• Flexible tactical day planning is more effective than rigid sol path preplanning for Mars rover science operations.
• Systematic observations and terrain considerations are vital for successful habitability and biosignature research.
• Current operational strategies may need refinement to optimize sample selection and mission efficiency.