Exploring Gediz Vallis and its ridge, Sols 3871-xxxx, 1 Jul 2023- Options

[Phil Stooke]

I think it's time for a new topic. We are effectively at the entrance to Gediz Vallis now that we have climbed this last slope on sol 3871.

The previous topic described the Greenheugh Pediment. We made a valiant attempt (two valiant attempts really) to explore its surface. It was too rough for Curiosity's dainty wheels but its outer edge was examined in detail. But now there are new targets: a crater cluster, the Gediz Vallis Ridge whose upper part is accessible from this level, and the large valley and its central sinuous valley as well.

I attached a picture seen at LPSC - I am embarrassed to say that I can't remember where it was from. Usually I have detailed notes of sources but this one slipped through. Maybe someone will recognize it and I can add a source. It gives the name of the butte at the western entrance to the valley, annotated onto the JPL map.

Phil