Curiosity update: To sample or not to sample? That is the question.

Sol 2373, April 10, 2019, update by MSL scientist Fred Calef: After looking at our exciting new drill hole, “Aberlady,” a few interesting observations were made: the drilled block lifted up a centimeter or two as the drill was retracted, there might be some evidence of a horizontal calcium sulfate (i.e. gypsum) vein within the drill hole, the drill went into the rock very easily (no percussion required), and the drill tailings look clumpier than usual. Some concern was expressed by instrument engineers and scientists that this outcrop may have penetrated into a weak underlying layer, precluding enough sample to make its way up into the drill stem for later drop off to CheMin and SAM… [More at link]