Discovery in Gale Crater
During its ongoing mission, the Curiosity rover captured high‑resolution images of a region in Gale Crater that displays a regular pattern of pentagonal and hexagonal shapes.
The features stretch over several kilometres and resemble terrestrial desiccation cracks that form when muddy soils dry out.
Geological Significance
Researchers note that the lack of plate tectonics, active volcanism and flowing water on Mars allows such patterns to persist for long periods.
The polygons may provide clues about past climate swings, indicating times when liquid water was temporarily present.
Next Steps
The rover team intends to combine the imagery with spectrometer data to determine the mineral composition of the polygon walls.
This should shed light on the geological history of Gale Crater and the past habitability potential of the area.