NASA's Curiosity Mars Rover

Oh, no! So it basically got its finger stuck in a hole? Can they detach the drill bit if they can’t get it loose?

Yup it's stuck.

There is a documented method where they can detach the Drill Bit Assembly (DBA) See image below of the complete DBA.

That would leave the DBA and the drill bit in the rock.

There are two brand new DBAs mounted to the front of the rover that in theory can be used to replace the DBA stuck in the rock.

However there is an actuator in the drill that is designed to release the DBA and re-engage with a new DBA mounted on the front of the rover in its Bit Box.

1. At this time we don't know if that release actuator is still in working order, as since landing in 2012 they have not needed to change a drill bit.

2. There is a Drill Feed Mechanism on the drill. This has been locked up for many years after its internal locking brake failed. That failure forced the team to establish a new way of drilling sample holes and retaining powdered rock without using the stabilizers on either side of the drill or CHIMRA. This however left the drill in its fully extended position.

3. I have no idea if unlatching and re-latching a new DBA is still possible with the drill feed mechanism fully extended.

I'm sure the team have plenty more ideas to attempt to release the bit. They are normally very conservative in these situations and will try the less risky things first, gradually digging deeper into their bag of tricks. Fingers crossed they can release this bit and test it to ensure it is working properly before drilling its next sample hole.

Here's a rover selfie that shows the 2 spare DBAs mounted on the front of the rover

Hopefully this situation will be addressed / explained in a future mission update / blog

Watch this space...