Mars Curiosity Rover Discovers 'Honeycomb' Structures in Gale Crater

The Mars Curiosity Rover has discovered unusual hexagonal structures resembling honeycombs or waffles within the Gale Crater. These formations may hold clues about the potential for past life on the Red Planet. Planetary geologist Dr. Catherine O'Connell-Cooper noted the well-preserved polygonal shaped fractures. Previous studies suggest that similar formations could have been created by wet and dry seasons millions of years ago. NASA scientists are using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy to analyze the composition of the honeycomb fractures. The origin of these cracks is still uncertain, with possibilities including desiccation cracks from a drier Mars or groundwater movement.