Perseverance rover has discovered definitive evidence of corundum—the mineral foundation of earthly rubies and sapphires—along the rim of Jezero Crater on Mars. According to a study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, the rover used laser systems throughout the year to analyze light-colored rocks lining the crater’s edges, confirming the presence of the mineral.
Decoding Mars’ Complex Geological History Through Corundum
The discovery reshapes scientific understanding of the Red Planet’s geological past. Geochemist Ann Ollila and a team of researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory led the study, noting that the mineral typically requires extreme temperatures or tectonic activity to form. Corundum demands high amounts of aluminum and low amounts of silicon. On Mars, scientists generally expect aluminum to bind with silicon to form different rocks. Finding corundum existing independently inside these rocks presents a scientific puzzle.
Did you know? On Earth, corundum forms in environments like extreme temperatures or tectonic movements. Finding it on Mars suggests the planet’s history.
Laser Systems and Jezero Crater Exploration
The vehicle analyzed light-colored rocks found in the edges of Jezero Crater using laser systems throughout 2025. According to the Los Alamos National Laboratory research team, these analyses provided definitive evidence of the mineral.
Pro Tip: When following rover missions, pay close attention to studies detailing mineralogical findings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is corundum?
Corundum is the mineral foundation of earthly rubies and sapphires.
Why is low silicon content significant?
Corundum requires high amounts of aluminum and low amounts of silicon, which creates a scientific puzzle since aluminum is expected to form different rocks with silicon.
How did the vehicle analyze the rocks?
The vehicle analyzed the rocks using laser systems.
Want to stay updated on planetary science discoveries? Drop a comment below or subscribe to our science dispatch.
Keep reading