# Perseverance Rover Collects Ancient Gabbro Sample on Mars The Singita rock sample provides new insights into the deep Martian crust history. - **Source:** [NASA](https://www.nasa.gov) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [science](https://brifing.si/c/science) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6aca4f4d-0bd1-4ff5-99ae-7b347e25c546 ## Successful Coring Operation On October 24, 2026, the Perseverance rover successfully collected a rock sample named Singita. This achievement occurred on Sol 2018 of the mission. The process involved using the rover's coring bit to extract material from a light-toned rock patch, marking the first successful sample collection in over a year of operations. ## Targeting Gabbroic Material The mission team specifically sought a gabbro sample, an igneous rock composed primarily of calcium-rich plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene crystals. Previous attempts at a site called Badger Peak failed due to extreme rock hardness. Scientists identified a new candidate with similar chemical properties, leading the rover to travel 100 meters to reach. ## Strategic Drilling Adjustments To ensure success, the team implemented specific operational changes compared to the Badger Peak attempt. They selected a rock with a flatter surface to improve drill stabilizer contact and utilized a coring bit with less wear. These prudent decisions allowed the drill to penetrate 3.1 centimeters into the target rock surface effectively. ## Geological Significance of Singita While Singita represents the newest addition to the collection, it potentially ranks among the oldest rocks gathered by the rover. Textures within the sample suggest it originated deep within the Martian crust. The rock appears to have been modified and excavated by at least one, or possibly multiple, significant impact events. ## Mission Status and Health The latest mission status report confirms that the Perseverance rover remains healthy and stable on the Martian surface. Spacecraft status is officially listed as nominal, indicating all systems are functioning as expected. This successful operation marks the 66th abrasion performed by the rover, demonstrating its continued capability for ongoing scientific exploration. ## Technical Imaging Process Documentation of the process involved high-resolution imaging from multiple onboard instruments. The Mastcam-Z camera captured the sample inside the coring bit, while the SHERLOC WATSON camera imaged the abrasion patch, known as Pumbe. These visual records provide essential data for scientists to analyze the rock's physical characteristics and surrounding geological context. ## Context of Martian Exploration Perseverance serves as the first leg of the Mars Sample Return Campaign, an ambitious interplanetary relay mission. Its primary objectives include searching for signs of ancient life and characterizing the planet's geology. By collecting diverse samples like Singita, the rover builds a comprehensive library of Martian history for future laboratory analysis. ## Future Scientific Prospects The successful acquisition of Singita validates the rover's operational strategies for handling difficult geological targets. As the mission continues, the team plans to perform many more abrasions to expand the current sample collection. These efforts remain critical for understanding the past, present, and future potential for life on the Red Planet. ## Sources covering this story - https://science.nasa.gov/blog/newest-sample-oldest-rock/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._