The rocket stage was spotted by Curiosity on December 1, 2022, as the rover was exploring the Vera Rubin Ridge in Gale Crater. The object appeared as a bright, metallic object in the distance, and it sparked speculation among scientists and space enthusiasts about what it might be.
Some suggested that it could be a piece of space debris, while others thought it might be a natural rock formation. However, NASA was able to quickly identify the object as the MAV rocket stage, thanks to the unique shape and features of the object.
The MAV rocket stage is about 10 feet (3 meters) in diameter and 15 feet (4.5 meters) tall. It is made of aluminum and is covered in a layer of insulation. The rocket stage also has four fins, which help it to stabilize as it flies through the atmosphere.
NASA said that the MAV rocket stage was discarded after it was used to launch the Curiosity rover to Mars in 2011. The rocket stage was then left in orbit around Mars, where it eventually fell back to the planet's surface.
The discovery of the MAV rocket stage is a reminder of the Mars Science Laboratory mission, which has been exploring Gale Crater since 2012. Curiosity has made a number of important discoveries during its time on Mars, including evidence of ancient water activity and a chemical environment that could potentially support life.
The discovery of the MAV rocket stage also highlights the importance of keeping track of space debris. As more spacecraft are launched into orbit around Earth and Mars, it is important to monitor their movements and ensure that they do not pose a risk to other missions or to the environment.
