• Curiosity rover discovered extensive, well-preserved polygonal fractures resembling honeycombs/waffles on Mars.
• The rover is using APXS, ChemCam, and MAHLI to analyze the composition and structure of these features.
• Scientists are excited about exploring the nearby 'boxwork' fracture structures at Ghost Mountain butte, hoping to understand their origin.

NASA's Curiosity rover has spotted unusual polygonal shaped fractures on Mars that resemble honeycombs or waffles. These fractures, noted for their well-preserved state and broad extent (20-30 meters), have garnered considerable attention from the mission team. The rover is currently positioned near the Ghost Mountain butte, a region known for its 'boxwork' fracture structures, making it an opportune location for investigating the origin and composition of these features.

• What: Discovery of polygonal shaped fractures resembling honeycombs or waffles on Mars.
• Who: NASA's Curiosity rover, NASA/JPL-Caltech, Catherine O'Connell-Cooper, Mars Science Laboratory Mission Team Members
• When: Images captured around May 1, 2025 (Sol 4527). Analysis and planning occurred in late April/early May 2025.
• Where: The area near Ghost Mountain butte on Mars.

The discovery of these well-preserved polygonal fractures is significant because they offer insights into the geological processes that have shaped the Martian surface. The fractures' resemblance to terrestrial honeycomb or waffle patterns suggests potential similarities in formation mechanisms, such as desiccation or thermal contraction. Analyzing the composition of the ridges and polygon centers will help scientists understand the role of water and other elements in their formation. The proximity to the Ghost Mountain 'boxwork' structures provides an opportunity to study the relationship between different types of fractures and their broader geological context.

We have spotted these before but usually not as well preserved and extensive as this — we can see these stretching away into the distance for 20-30 meters (about 66-98 feet), almost to the edge of the “boxwork” fracture structures at “Ghost Mountain” butte in this Navcam image.

We could stay here for a week and still find things to look at in this workspace.

The discovery of honeycomb and waffle-like patterns by the Curiosity rover is a significant finding that will further understanding of Martian geology. Ongoing analysis using APXS, ChemCam, and MAHLI will shed light on the composition and origin of these features, potentially revealing more about Mars' past environment and geological history. The upcoming exploration of the Ghost Mountain boxwork structures is highly anticipated, promising to provide valuable insights into the broader context of these fractures.