(CNN) The Perseverance rover is sending back the sounds of Mars -- and it's contributing to the soundtrack. New audio returned from the rover's SuperCam includes the popping sound of the instrument as it zaps rocks with its laser. It's the first time we've heard what it sounds like when a laser interacts with a rock on another planet. Researchers can use these variations to understand more about the physical structure of rocks, including how hard they are. The instrument includes a camera, laser and spectrometers that can identify the chemical and mineral composition of rocks and soil.

Source: The Nation March 11, 2021 20:04 UTC