NASA’s Perseverance rover has captured an unusual rock formation on Mars that has drawn attention for its resemblance to a medieval helmet. The object, nicknamed “Horneflya,” was recently voted NASA’s Image of the Week after the photograph was shared by the space agency.

Located in the Jezero Crater, the rock’s distinctive pointed top and smooth curves have prompted comparisons to a wizard’s hat, including those from fantasy films. Scientists, however, say its appearance is the result of natural geological processes rather than human or alien activity.

According to NASA, the rock is made of spherules — small spherical grains formed either through volcanic eruptions or meteorite impacts. Over time, erosion and the movement of ancient groundwater are believed to have shaped its unusual outline. The discovery provides further insight into Mars’ geological history and the role that water may have played in altering the planet’s surface.

Perseverance has been exploring Jezero Crater since 2021 in search of signs of ancient microbial life and to collect rock samples for a future return to Earth. While “Horneflya” is not considered evidence of past life, scientists note that its composition and location could contribute valuable data to ongoing studies.

The image’s popularity reflects the public’s fascination with Mars and its ability to produce shapes that spark human imagination. NASA continues to share such images to engage people with planetary science and the ongoing mission to understand the Red Planet’s history.