Curiosity's international team has resumed full operations after a period of limited activity during most of June 2015. The operations moratorium happens about every 26 months, when Mars passes nearly behind the sun from Earth's perspective and the sun interferes with radio communication between the two planets. Curiosity's path has crossed areas that have numerous sharp rocks embedded in the ground. The wheels can sustain significant damage without impairing the rover's ability to drive, and dents and holes were anticipated, however the amount of wear on Curiosity's wheels appears to have accelerated. Routes to future destinations for the mission will likely be charted to lessen the amount of travel over such rough terrain. Flat tire and all, NASA's Curiosity Mars rover is now examining a valley, where at least two types of bedrock meet, for clues about changes in ancient environmental conditions recorded by the rock.