Localized Dust Storms on Mars May Lead to Significant Water Loss, New Study Reveals

Posted on February 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Evidence suggests that Mars once hosted significant amounts of water. Past studies indicate that the majority of atmospheric water loss occurs during the Martian southern summer. During this season, warm and dusty conditions allow water vapor to ascend to high altitudes, where it escapes into space without condensing. A groundbreaking study has unveiled a previously unidentified pathway for water loss, observed for the first time in the Martian northern summer. This research highlights how a localized, short-lived sandstorm in Mars Year 37 (August 2023) caused a surge in water vapor.

Close-up color image of a small dust storm on Mars, captured by ESA’s Mars Express’ HRSC instrument in April 2018. Image credit: ESA / DLR / FU Berlin / CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO.

Dr. Adrian Brines, a researcher at the Andalusian Institute of Astronomy and the University of Tokyo, stated, “Our findings reveal the impact of this type of storm on Earth’s climate evolution and open new avenues for understanding how Mars has lost water over time.”

While dust storms have long been recognized as significant contributors to water escape on Mars, previous discussions primarily focused on large-scale dust events occurring on a planetary scale.

In this study, Dr. Brines and colleagues demonstrated that smaller, localized storms can significantly enhance the transport of water vapor to high altitudes, where it is lost to space more readily.

Prior research concentrated on the warm and dynamic summers of the Southern Hemisphere, as this is the primary period for water loss on Mars.

The recent study detected an unusual spike in water vapor in Mars’ middle atmosphere, attributed to a localized dust storm during the northern hemisphere summer of Martian year 37.

Diagram demonstrating the atmospheric response to localized sandstorms in the Northern Hemisphere during summer. High dust concentrations significantly enhance solar radiation absorption, promoting atmospheric warming, especially in the middle atmosphere. This increased circulation enhances the vertical transport of water vapor, facilitating its injection at high altitudes and increasing hydrogen efflux from the exobase. Image credit: Brines et al., doi: 10.1038/s43247-025-03157-5.

This surge in water vapor was unprecedented, reaching levels up to 10 times higher than normal—an occurrence not predicted by existing climate models or observed in previous Martian epochs.

Following this event, the amount of hydrogen in Mars’ exobase—where the atmosphere transitions into space—also rose significantly, increasing by 2.5 times compared to the previous year.

Understanding how much water Mars has lost over time hinges on measuring the hydrogen that escapes into space, as this element is produced when water decomposes in the atmosphere.

Dr. Shohei Aoki, a researcher at the University of Tokyo and Tohoku University, noted, “These results provide a crucial piece to the incomplete puzzle of how Mars has persistently lost water over billions of years, demonstrating that brief but intense episodes can significantly influence the evolution of Mars’ climate.”

Discover more about these findings in the featured study, published this week in Communication: Earth and Environment.

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A. Brines et al. 2026. Unseasonal water escape during summer in Mars’ northern hemisphere caused by localized strong sandstorms. Communication: Earth and Environment 7, 55; doi: 10.1038/s43247-025-03157-5

Source: www.sci.news

How Mars’ Gravity May Influence Earth’s Ice Age Cycles

Posted on January 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Mars’ Significant Impact on Earth’s Climate

Credit: NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems

Composite photo of Mars — Mars’ Significant Impact on Earth’s Climate

Credit: NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems

Despite Mars being smaller than Earth, it profoundly affects Earth’s climate cycle. Understanding how smaller planets influence the climates of exoplanets is crucial for assessing their potential for habitability.

According to Stephen Cain, researchers at the University of California, Riverside, discovered this phenomenon by simulating various scenarios to analyze Mars’ effect on Earth’s orbit across different masses, from 100 times its current mass to its complete removal. “Initially, I was skeptical that Mars, only one-tenth the mass of Earth, could so significantly affect Earth’s cycles. This motivated our study to manipulate Mars’ mass and observe the effects,” says Cain.

Earth’s climate is influenced by long-term cycles tied to its orbital eccentricity and axial tilt. These cycles are dictated by the gravitational forces of the Sun and other planets, determining significant climate events such as ice ages and seasonal shifts.

One crucial cycle, referred to as the Grand Cycle, spans 2.4 million years, involving the elongation and shortening of Earth’s orbital ellipse. This directly influences the amount of sunlight reaching Earth’s surface, thus controlling long-term climate changes.

The research indicates that eliminating Mars would not only remove the Grand Cycle but also another essential eccentricity cycle lasting 100,000 years. “While removing Mars wouldn’t completely halt ice ages, it would alter the frequency and climate impacts associated with them,” Cain explains.

As Mars’ simulated mass increases, the resulting climate cycles become shorter and more intense. However, a third eccentricity cycle, enduring approximately 405,000 years, remains predominantly influenced by Venus and Jupiter’s gravitational pulls, illustrating that while Mars is notably influential, it is not the only player.

Mars also affects Earth’s axial tilt, which oscillates over about 41,000 years. Cain and colleagues observed that Mars seems to stabilize these cycles—more mass leads to less frequent cycles, while a smaller Mars results in more frequent ones.

The precise impact of Mars’ absence or increased mass on Earth remains speculative, but it would undoubtedly lead to changes. The pursuit of Earth-like exoplanets with climates suitable for life continues, underscoring the need to evaluate the influence of smaller planets more thoroughly. “A comprehensive understanding of exoplanet system architectures is essential for predicting possible climate changes on these worlds,” warns Sean Raymond from the University of Bordeaux, France.

However, deciphering these structures can be challenging. “This serves as a cautionary note: small planets like Mars may wield a greater influence than we realize, making it imperative not to overlook these difficult-to-detect celestial bodies,” concludes Cain.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Evidence Suggests Mars Once Had an Ocean Comparable to the Arctic Ocean

Posted on January 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Mars Was Once Much Wetter

NASA/USGS

Mars’ geological features reveal that the planet once hosted rivers and extensive coastlines, indicating it may have had vast oceans in its history. This discovery offers the most substantial evidence yet of Mars’ once vibrant blue landscape.

According to Ezzat Heidari, a geochemist at Jackson State University in Mississippi (who was not part of the study), “The existence of liquid water on Mars encompasses a wide array of topics including rain, rivers, lakes, and oceans.” In his view, this research highlights a significant factor: the ocean.

The research team, featuring planetary geologists like Ignatius Indy and geoscientists such as Fritz Schlunegger from the University of Bern, made groundbreaking discoveries using data from numerous spacecraft. This includes NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and the European Space Agency’s Mars Express and ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter. The ExoMars spacecraft, equipped with a specialized Bernese Mars camera, has been instrumental in capturing high-resolution color images, which were crucial for this research.

“These sophisticated images help us identify subtle variations in surface materials that are invisible in black and white images,” Indy explains. Combined with topographical data from other orbiters, these tools transform into a “geological time machine,” providing a clearer glimpse of Mars’ geological evolution.

To explore Mars’ potential ancient water sources, the researchers scrutinized Valles Marineris, an extensive canyon system over 4,000 kilometers long that runs along the planet’s equator. Their focus particularly emphasized the southeast area, Koprates Chasma, with its features dating back around 3.3 billion years.

By merging the new images with geomorphological analyses, the researchers identified structures indicative of river flow into oceans and the formation of alpine lakes at mountain bases—similar to Earth’s geography.

“The Nile Delta serves as a classic illustration,” Schlunegger notes. “If you were to drain the Mediterranean just past the end of the Nile, you’d observe features remarkably akin to those found on Mars,” he states.

Silty Deposits Left by Ancient Water on Mars

Algadestia et al. 2026, CaSSIS

The new data allowed scientists to trace the ancient coastline of Mars’ former ocean, estimating its size to be comparable to Earth’s Arctic Ocean. This could represent the largest ocean that ever existed on Mars.

“Our research indicates that approximately 3 billion years ago, Mars may have sustained significant bodies of surface water within Valles Marineris, the largest canyon in our solar system,” Indy remarked. “What’s even more intriguing is that these water bodies might have been linked to a much larger ocean that once spanned parts of Mars’ northern lowlands.”

While past research suggested the presence of water on Mars, much of the evidence was indirect. A notable study revealed Martian minerals that may have interacted with water long ago. Additional investigations have indicated that an ancient asteroid impact could have triggered a massive tsunami on the planet. Yet, acquiring conclusive data has remained a challenge.

The notion that Mars once harbored a vast ocean remains debated; as Michael Manga, a geoscientist from the University of California, Berkeley (who wasn’t involved in this study), points out, “Even if the ocean did exist, the geological record is far too ancient to be clear.”

This discovery raises fascinating possibilities for the search for extraterrestrial life and serves as a cautionary reminder that Earth’s crucial resources may also one day diminish.

“This paper addresses a question that is paramount to those researching Mars’ evolution,” Heidari said. “Martian oceans would have operated similarly to Earth’s oceans, playing a vital role in the planet’s health.”

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Discover Chile’s astronomical treasures, including the world’s most advanced observatory, and enjoy stargazing under the clearest skies on Earth.

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NASA Mars Spacecraft May Have Ceased Operations in Orbit

Posted on January 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

For nearly a month, NASA has been striving to reestablish communication with the MAVEN probe, which unexpectedly went silent while orbiting Mars.

The space agency lost contact with the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) spacecraft on December 6. Despite efforts to restore connectivity, mission controllers believe the spacecraft was spinning erratically based on data received that day.

NASA plans to make another attempt to revive MAVEN on January 16 due to Mars and Earth being positioned on opposite sides of the sun, which has caused significant communication delays.

Unfortunately, the prognosis is concerning for one of NASA’s flagship missions.

Since its entry into orbit around Mars in 2014, the MAVEN spacecraft has been instrumental in studying the Red Planet’s upper atmosphere, including the ionosphere, and understanding how Mars has lost its atmosphere over billions of years. MAVEN also facilitates communications among two rovers on the Martian surface, Curiosity and Perseverance, and Earth.

NASA has been unable to contact MAVEN since December 6, a day when the agency experienced a “loss of signal” while the spacecraft was behind Mars. This situation generally leads to routine communication interruptions, but MAVEN failed to reestablish contact when it emerged from behind the planet.

NASA announced it is investigating the situation. In a statement from December 9, few specifics were given, although mission controllers reported that all subsystems were functioning correctly before the spacecraft passed behind Mars.

After about a week, NASA updated that they had not received communications from MAVEN since December 4 but did retrieve a snippet of tracking data from December 6.

The findings were alarming. “Analysis of that signal suggests that the MAVEN spacecraft was rotating unexpectedly as it emerged from behind Mars,” NASA officials stated in a statement.

NASA employs a global network of radio antennas known as the Deep Space Network to issue commands to MAVEN and monitor incoming signals. On December 16 and 20, attempts were made to capture images of MAVEN in orbit using instruments aboard NASA’s Curiosity rover.

Meanwhile, mission controllers are diligently analyzing the last set of recovered tracking data. NASA reported on December 23 that they were trying to piece together a timeline to understand the issue. Additional details were not disclosed in a comment request, but the agency referred to the December 23 update.

Originally, the MAVEN mission was intended to last just two years, yet it has been operational for more than a decade. In 2024, NASA celebrated a decade since MAVEN began orbiting Mars.

By examining Mars’ atmospheric loss, MAVEN has provided insights into the planet’s past and present climate, illustrating its transformation from a potentially habitable environment with liquid water to the cold, desolate world it is today.

MAVEN is one of three NASA spacecraft currently orbiting Mars. The agency also operates the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, launched in 2005, and Mars Odyssey, launched in 2001.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

2026 Mars Mission Aims to Uncover Satellite Secrets

Posted on January 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

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MMX Spacecraft to Explore Mars Moons

Credit: JAXA

MMX spacecraft visiting Mars moon — MMX Spacecraft to Explore Mars Moons

Credit: JAXA

The mystery surrounding the origins of Mars’s moons, Phobos and Deimos, may soon be unraveled with the launch of the MMX spacecraft, set to return samples from Phobos to Earth in 2026.

“While we understand the origin of Earth’s moon, the origins of Phobos and Deimos remain unclear,” says Emelia Brannagan-Harris from the Natural History Museum in London. “By exploring the origins of these moons, we aim to gain insights into Mars’s evolutionary history.”

There are two leading theories regarding how these moons came to orbit Mars. The first theory suggests that they are remnants of asteroids that either merged and then separated or closely orbit each other. The second theory posits that they may have formed from an asteroid impact on Mars, similar to the formation of Earth’s moon.

Currently, evidence supports neither scenario definitively. However, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s Mars Moon Explorer (MMX), scheduled for launch in 2026, is equipped to clarify which theory holds true. This spacecraft will observe both moons and send a rover to gather samples from Phobos’s surface and subsurface.

If the observations reveal a prevalence of carbon-rich materials and water, it could support the theory of asteroid capture. Conversely, if such materials are absent, we may need to await the analysis of the collected samples, expected to return to Earth by 2031.

The Phobos samples will include both surface material and samples from beneath the surface. Testing this material will allow scientists to investigate signs of past dissolution, potentially indicating interactions with Mars’s atmosphere or surface.

Regardless of the origins of Phobos, its close orbit around Mars suggests it may hold well-preserved samples from early Mars. “Phobos might also contain ancient debris from Mars’s period of liquid water, offering significant insights into the planet’s history,” Brannagan-Harris emphasizes.

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Did Scientists Discover Evidence of Past Life on Mars in 2025?

Posted on December 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

NASA’s Perseverance Rover: Pioneering Exploration for Past Life on Mars

Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

On the surface of Mars, minute details provide critical insights into the planet’s past. In 2025, new findings will shed light on possible microbial life that may have once thrived.

NASA’s Perseverance rover has gathered samples indicating the potential for ancient life. Specifically, it uncovered a rock featuring tiny specks, known as “leopard spots,” encircled by a distinctive dark ring. These geological features resemble those associated with microbial fossils on Earth.

This year, Joel Hurowitz and his team at Stony Brook University conducted a detailed analysis of the leopard spots and identified forms of iron and sulfur commonly linked to microbial activity. “This evidence is more promising than anything I’ve encountered in the last two decades,” stated Hannah Sizemore from the Planetary Science Institute in Arizona.

Previous indications of potential life on Mars included unexpected changes in methane levels and fossil-like structures in Martian meteorites. “I am more excited about these discoveries compared to earlier findings,” Sizemore added, emphasizing that the previous data lacked the correct physical scale for microbial evidence. In contrast, the leopard spots on Mars could directly indicate microbial activity.

The Perseverance rover has also detected other potential biosignatures, such as a small greenish mineral blob typically associated with microbial life on Earth. “Life on Mars is subtle. It’s not like seeing herds of wildlife,” remarked Andrew Steele, who was instrumental in formulating the rover’s scientific objectives. “Identifying signs of life will require the best technology we have available.”

Perseverance Rover Reveals Mars Rocks with Unique ‘Leopard Spots’

Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS

Equipped with advanced scientific tools, Perseverance is crucial for identifying whether these Martian rocks exhibit signs of ancient life. The mission involves caching samples for a future retrieval back to Earth for comprehensive testing.

“These samples could provide decisive evidence regarding the existence of life on Mars,” Steele remarked. “However, before we can confirm this, we need to return the samples to our laboratories.”

Unfortunately, the prospect of retrieving these samples is growing uncertain. The 2026 NASA budget proposal under the Trump administration raises concerns about the Mars Sample Return Project’s viability. If approved, it would eliminate plans to recover the meticulously gathered samples from Perseverance.

It’s possible that evidence of past life on Mars has already been discovered, yet we may never fully understand it. “While we are making strides, the understanding of Mars’ habitability remains fluid,” Sizemore said. “We’re on the edge of a potential breakthrough. However, we can neither ignore it nor prove it without further missions.”

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How Lab-Grown Lichens Could Revolutionize Habitat Construction on Mars

Posted on December 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Synthesized lichen that shines bright blue under ultraviolet light.

As I explore the fascinating world of lichens, I often find myself captivated by their unique growths on tree branches, rocky outcrops, and gravestones. Although I have encountered numerous lichens during my research on symbiosis, discovering them in a laboratory flask swirling in an incubator was a novel experience. Recently, I’ve begun to contemplate the insights lichens can provide, not just about our past but about the potential for our future.

The green liquid in the incubator may not resemble typical lichen, as this is actually a synthetic alternative. According to Rodrigo Ledesma Amaro, director at the Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein, this co-culture comprises fungi (yeast) and cyanobacteria. Much like natural lichens, the fungal component acts as a structural host while cyanobacteria leverage sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create sugars during photosynthesis.

What drives the creation of such “potion”? As Ledesma-Amaro explains, genetically edited yeast can produce useful products—food, fuels, and medications—which can be created sustainably through photosynthesis. Today’s synthetic lichens present exciting opportunities within the biotechnology sector. They hold potential for repairing infrastructures, mitigating climate change, and even crafting habitats on Mars.

“Synthetic lichens replicate the symbiotic nature of natural lichens but grow significantly faster,” says Ledesma-Amaro. Their use of yeast facilitates large-scale production of valuable compounds, like caryophyllene—a vital ingredient in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and fuel. Notably, alternative synthetic lichens could be engineered for carbon capture and storage, while ongoing research pursues their use in revitalizing aging concrete structures worldwide. The future application of lichens could even extend beyond Earth, with NASA exploring ways to cultivate engineered lichens on the Moon and Mars for building purposes.

The Science of Symbiosis

Though unassuming, lichens exemplify the essence of symbiosis, where diverse species coexist harmoniously. Typically, lichens consist of fungal partners that host photobionts—algae or bacteria—that produce food through photosynthesis while the fungus shelters them. This arrangement enables lichens to thrive in extreme conditions, fostering scientific interest in creating synthetic counterparts.

Lichens demonstrate two key benefits: their interdependent nature allows them to accomplish more together than individually, and their resilience enables survival in harsh environments. In some regions like Svalbard, where around 700 lichen species exist, they tolerate frigid temperatures, salinity, and other extreme conditions. Curious scientists continue to explore how these organisms endure aridity and temperature fluctuations.

Lichens represent a fascinating life form sustained through a symbiotic relationship.

Jose B. Luis/naturepl.com

Researchers propose that lichen resilience stems from biomolecules formed by filamentous fungi, which provide protection to the entire community. Moreover, their slow growth allows them to persist with minimal resources. Together, these qualities offer lichens unique advantages over single-species organisms.

Space Lichens: The Future of Exploration

These attributes have sparked interest from NASA due to lichens’ ability to withstand simulated and real space conditions. For instance, lichens like Cirquinaria girosa survived outside the International Space Station for over 18 months. Their capacity for growth within rocks and survival in space conditions has intrigued scientists and advocates alike.

Kongrui Jin, a biomaterials engineer at Texas A&M University, recognizes the potential of lichens in future space habitats. Proposals for extraterrestrial homes often use inflatable structures, reducing the need to transport materials from Earth. However, opportunities exist to produce building materials directly from Martian regolith using lichen-based solutions.

Lichens have survived in space, proving their resilience and adaptability.

ESA

“We aim to merge these fungi with photosynthetic species like cyanobacteria,” Jin elaborates. “This combination can convert sunlight into organic nutrients while binding Martian soil particles into cohesive structures.” The biomaterials produced could be utilized with 3D printing technology for constructing habitats.

Jin’s research illustrates the potential of lichens in transforming Martian regolith into conducive building materials. They also offer routes toward producing biominerals and biopolymers, leading some futurists to envision them as key players in terraforming Mars. Yet even without strict planetary protection measures, lichens will need shielding from the harsh Martian surface conditions to flourish.

The Future of Architecture with Lichens

While colonizing other planets remains a distant goal, the application of lichens offers immediate benefits on Earth. They can aid in bundling rubble for construction, notably in rebuilding after natural or human-made disasters. Furthermore, incorporating methods that sequester carbon in concrete production could significantly lessen its environmental impact.

Jin and her colleagues successfully demonstrated that integrating lichen-based combinations of fungi and cyanobacteria can grow in concrete, precipitating calcium carbonate to repair structural cracks efficiently. “This method shows much higher survival rates compared to other microbes in challenging conditions,” she states. These synthetic lichens can extract nitrogen from the air, negating the need for external nutrient supplementation.

Meanwhile, Khakhar is exploring ways to enhance lichen growth by selecting and modifying fast-growing microorganisms. His lab is developing synthetic lichens similar to Jin’s, paving the way for sustainable production of building materials through biomanufacturing, termed “mycomaterials.”

My journey into the world of symbiosis reveals that lichens embody complex ecosystems—a vivid lesson in interdependence and their futuristic potential in shaping our materials. The next time you encounter a lichen adorning a tree or tombstone, take a moment to reflect on the incredible possibilities these organisms hold for our future.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Mars Might Have Once Hosted Larger Moons

Posted on December 12, 2025 by

Gale Crater on Mars

ZUMA Press, Inc./Alamy

There may have been ancient tides on Mars, suggesting the presence of larger moons capable of influencing the planet’s waters. Currently, Mars has two small moons that aren’t sufficient for this theory.

Suniti Karunatilake and researchers from Louisiana State University discovered signs of tidal activity in Gale Crater’s sedimentary layers.

By examining these layers, they inferred the nature of the tidal cycles and the potential moon responsible for them. If such a moon existed, it would have been significantly larger than Phobos, Mars’ biggest moon, yet still smaller than Earth’s moon. The two current Martian moons might be remnants of a larger satellite.

Mr. Karunatilake is set to present the findings at the upcoming American Geophysical Union meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The sedimentary rocks that supported their conclusions were captured by NASA’s Curiosity rover, displaying alternating layers of varying thicknesses and colors. These strata are termed rhythmite, indicating that they were formed by winds or ocean currents of fluctuating strength. In tidal scenarios, sand is transported back and forth, covered by fine mud when the tide recedes.

The rhythm of strong winds leaves thin, dark lines indicative of “mud drapes,” which “resemble Earth’s tidal patterns closely,” notes team member Priyabrata Das, also from Louisiana State University.

To bolster their hypothesis, Ranjan Sarkar from Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research utilized a standard mathematical technique called the Fourier transform to evaluate the layered structures in Martian rocks. This analysis revealed additional periodicity in layer thicknesses, implying that both the sun and a past moon may have influenced the tides.

This analysis may validate the idea initially put forth by Rajat Mazumdar from the German Institute of Technology in Oman. In 2023, Mazumdar suggested that layered formations observed by NASA’s Perseverance rover in Jezero Crater could indicate tidal activity. Unfortunately, the resolution of these images was insufficient for Fourier analysis. Enthused by the Gail rhythmite findings, Mazumdar emphasizes that rhythmite on Earth is strong evidence of tidal conditions.

However, skepticism remains. The lakes in Jezero and Gale craters, sized at 45 kilometers and 154 kilometers respectively, are considered too small to exhibit significant tidal flooding. Nicholas Mangold, a member of NASA’s Perseverance Mars team at the Institute for Planetary and Earth Sciences in Nantes, France, argues that larger moons wouldn’t have left tidal traces in these locations.

Christopher Fed, a professor at the University of Tennessee working with NASA on the Curiosity mission, also finds the notion of a larger moon problematic, suggesting that tidal-like patterns could emerge from varying river inflows instead.

Nevertheless, Sarkar believes a tidal connection is feasible. “The ocean might have linked to Gale, and even subsurface porosity could create tides. Mars’ surface is extensively cracked and crated, meaning porosity isn’t an issue,” he argues.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Mars Was Once Warmer and Wetter, Say Planetary Scientists

Posted on December 4, 2025 by

NASA’s Perseverance spacecraft has identified thousands of light-toned rock fragments, also known as floating rocks, several of which exhibit spectral characteristics of an aluminum-rich clay mineral known as kaolinite. To understand their origins, planetary scientists utilized data from Perseverance’s SuperCam and Mastcam-Z instruments to analyze the chemistry and reflectance spectra of the floating rocks in relation to deeply weathered paleosols (ancient soils) and hydrothermal kaolin deposits recorded in Earth’s geological archives. The increased levels of aluminum and titanium, along with the reduced amounts of iron and magnesium, differentiate these rocks from hydrothermal deposits, aligning them more closely with the bleached layers of paleosoils formed during periods of significant rainfall in Earth’s past greenhouse climates. Thus, these rocks may signify some of the most aqueous periods in Mars’ history.

Mastcam-Z landscape and multispectral images of light-toned float rocks atop the Jezero Crater Margin Unit near the Hans Amundson Memorial Works (Sol 912). It shows the spectral diversity of this material. Image credit: Broz others., doi: 10.1038/s43247-025-02856-3.

“Rocks like these are likely among the most significant outcrops we’ve observed from orbit because their formation is challenging to replicate elsewhere on Mars,” stated Dr. Bryony Hogan, Perseverance’s long-term planner and a researcher at Purdue University.

“Given that these require substantial water, we believe they could be indicative of an ancient, warmer, wetter climate that experienced prolonged periods of rainfall.”

“Tropical environments, such as rainforests, are where kaolinite clays are predominantly found on Earth,” added Adrian Broz, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher at Purdue University.

“Thus, when finding kaolinite on Mars, which is desolate and frigid with no surface liquid water, it suggests that there used to be significantly more water than is present today.”

Kaolinite fragments, varying in size from pebbles to larger rocks, contribute to the ongoing discussion about the climate of Mars billions of years ago.

Initial analyses using the SuperCam and Mastcam-Z instruments have involved comparing kaolinite to analogous rocks on Earth.

Debris from Mars could yield crucial insights into not only the planet’s historical environmental conditions but also how it transitioned to its current desolate state.

“Kaolinite carries its own enigmas,” emphasized Dr. Hogan.

“Currently, there are no significant outcrops nearby that could explain the presence of these light-colored rocks, despite their distribution along the mission’s path since Perseverance’s landing in Jezero Crater in February 2021.”

“This crater once housed a lake that was approximately twice the size of Lake Tahoe.”

“While there are compelling indicators of significant water events, the origin of these rocks remains uncertain.”

“It’s possible they were transported into the Jezero lake by rivers that formed the delta regions, or they may have been ejected into Jezero by a meteorite impact. The complete picture is still unclear.”

Satellite imaging has revealed substantial kaolinite outcrops in various regions of Mars.

“However, until we can physically reach these large outcrops with spacecraft, these small rocks are the only tangible evidence we have regarding their formation,” Dr. Hogan noted.

“Currently, the findings in these rocks suggest a historically warmer and wetter environment.”

Mastcam-Z and SuperCam observations of hydrated layers of aluminum-rich floating rock in Jezero Crater, Mars. Image credit: Broz others., doi: 10.1038/s43247-025-02856-3.

The researchers compared the Martian kaolinite samples studied by Perseverance to rock samples located near San Diego, California, and in South Africa. The similarities between the rocks from both planets were striking.

On Earth, kaolinite forms in both rainy tropical climates and hydrothermal systems where hot water permeates into rocks.

Nonetheless, this process leaves behind chemical signatures that differ from the effects of cold leaching from rain over extended periods.

Scientists evaluated various hydrothermal leaching scenarios against Martian rocks using datasets from three distinct sites.

Rocks like kaolinite from Mars act as time capsules, potentially preserving billions of years of information regarding environmental conditions throughout Earth’s history.

“All life requires water, so if these Martian rocks signify a rainfall-driven environment, that’s an extraordinary indication of a potentially habitable space where life could have flourished on Mars,” stated Dr. Broz.

The team’s paper has been published in the journal Communication Earth and Environment.

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AP Broz others. 2025. Alteration history of aluminum-rich rocks in Mars’ Jezero Crater. Communication Earth and Environment 6,935; doi: 10.1038/s43247-025-02856-3

Source: www.sci.news

How Did Mars Acquire Its Moons? – Cyworthy

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

The moon of Earth stands out as a prominent feature in our night sky. Scientists largely agree that during the early stages of Earth’s formation, a smaller, planet-like object collided with Earth, ejecting a substantial amount of material into space. This debris was subsequently pulled into orbit around Earth due to gravity and maintained a slow enough speed to become trapped in Earth’s gravitational field. However, the
giant impact hypothesis
has provided clarity on the origin of our moon. In contrast, the origins of other moons in our solar system, like the Martian moons Phobos and Deimos, remain a topic of debate.

An alternate theory suggests that two small celestial bodies approached Mars early in its existence and collided with the gas and dust clouds left from its formation. This surrounding dust could have decelerated them sufficiently for Mars’ gravity to capture them. This theory is referred to as the
gas drag capture hypothesis
and may account for the existence of Phobos and Deimos. Furthermore, they are composed of
different materials
than those found on Mars
, which raises additional questions.

One challenge to this theory is that the dust density around Mars would have to be several times greater than current models of solar system formation indicate, to slow down approaching objects effectively. Additionally, there’s a question of probability. Although Phobos and Deimos both have orbits that lie within 2° of the Martian equator, the odds of both objects aligning with Mars at an angle that matches the equator is around only 0.00001%.

To investigate the viability of this scenario, two scientists from Japan developed a model aimed at calculating the trajectory of a Phobos-sized object approaching Mars. The aim was to show, through various challenges, that the gas drag trap hypothesis might not be as implausible as previously believed.

Phobos orbits Mars about 3,700 miles or 6,000 kilometers above the planet’s surface and is slowly falling towards Mars. Deimos orbits Mars at a distance of 14,600 miles, or 23,500 kilometers. “Mars Moons” by Muskid is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Initially, the researchers defined the pertinent equations of motion to include in their model. This included variables such as the angular velocity of an object approaching Mars, its distance from the planet, its potential energy, and the drag force that reduces its speed. Additionally, they factored in Mars’ mass and the state of the surrounding matter at the time, which they referred to as the primitive atmosphere of Mars. They estimated this atmosphere’s temperature at 200 Kelvin (approximately -73°C or -100°F) and its density at 4.7 × 10.^-7 kilograms per cubic meter, increasing near the Martian surface and decreasing exponentially with height.

Next, the team needed to establish the initial orbit of the incoming satellite, testing eight different speeds ranging from 20 meters/second to 160 meters/second (about 45 miles/hour to 360 miles/hour) in 20 meters/second increments. There were 4,096 angles of incidence to be tested relative to Mars’ equator and poles, leading to a total of 32,768 initial trajectory combinations for objects approaching Mars.

Their findings indicated three potential outcomes for objects entering Mars’ primordial atmosphere: they could escape Mars’ gravitational grasp, become temporarily trapped, or be permanently ensnared. Remarkably, nearly all objects approached at the slowest speeds were captured in some capacity, while only around 10% of those at the highest speeds were captured. The researchers posited that about 1 in 50 incoming objects would be permanently secured by Mars, particularly if they lost enough energy, limiting their orbits to within 10 degrees of Mars’ equator.

The research team proposed a potential history for Phobos and Deimos, suggesting that due to their composition, they likely formed in the outer solar system, possibly within or beyond the asteroid belt. Over time, they may have been scattered by Jupiter’s gravitational influence, gradually approaching Mars at the right angles and speeds to be captured by its gas, resulting in their current eccentric orbits. Eventually, their orbits became slower, more circular, and moved closer to Mars.

This proposed scenario aligns well with current observations of Phobos and Deimos. The research team anticipates that future
Mars satellite exploration
missions will further investigate these moons. The planned mission will orbit Mars and then Phobos, conducting detailed observations and remote sensing while collecting surface samples to return to Earth, enhancing our understanding of these moons’ origins. The mission is set to launch in 2026, with Phobos samples expected to arrive back on Earth in 2031.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Captures Close-Up Image of Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS

Posted on November 20, 2025 by

Exciting new images from High-Resolution Image Science Experiment onboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter will enable astronomers to refine their estimates regarding the size of 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar object that has passed through our solar system.

This image of 3I/ATLAS was captured by the HiRISE camera aboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter on October 2, 2025. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / University of Arizona.

On October 2, 2025, the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) observed 3I/ATLAS from approximately 30 million km (19 million miles) away.

The MRO team utilized the High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE), which typically focuses on the Martian surface.

By maneuvering, the spacecraft can direct its camera toward other celestial objects. This method was previously employed in 2014 when HiRISE collaborated with MAVEN to examine the comet Siding Spring.

“Observations of interstellar objects are still infrequent, so each time we learn something new,” noted Dr. Shane Byrne, HiRISE principal investigator and researcher at the University of Arizona.

“We were fortunate that 3I/ATLAS came close to Mars.”

Captured at a resolution of about 30 km (19 miles) per pixel, 3I/ATLAS appears as a pixelated white sphere in the HiRISE images.

“This sphere is a cloud of dust and ice, referred to as a coma, that the comet emits as it travels past Mars,” the researchers added.

Further analysis of HiRISE images could assist scientists in establishing an upper limit on the size of a comet’s core, composed of ice and dust.

The images might also uncover properties of particles known as comas within the comet’s atmosphere.

Ongoing scrutiny of the images may reveal nuclear fragments and gas jets expelled as comets disintegrate over time.

“One of MRO’s greatest contributions to NASA’s Mars research is its ability to observe surface phenomena that only HiRISE can detect,” explained Dr. Leslie Tampali, MRO’s project scientist and a research scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

“This opportunity allows us to study passing space objects.”

“Thanks to NASA’s versatile fleet of spacecraft throughout our solar system, we can continue to observe this dynamic entity from unique perspectives,” stated Georgia Tech researcher Professor James Ray, a HiRISE co-investigator.

“All three prior interstellar objects exhibit significant differences from one another and from typical Solar System comets, making every new observation incredibly valuable.”

“Being able to observe a visitor from another star system is extraordinary in itself,” remarked Dr. Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, senior vice president for research and partnerships at the University of Arizona.

“Doing so from a University of Arizona-led instrument orbiting Mars adds to its remarkable nature.”

“This moment highlights the ingenuity of our scientists and the lasting impact of this university’s leadership in space exploration.”

“HiRISE exemplifies how discovery tools can benefit both science and the public interest.”

Source: www.sci.news

Blue Origin Launches Rocket to Transport NASA’s Twin Spacecraft to Mars

Posted on November 14, 2025 by

Blue Origin achieved a successful launch of its impressive New Glenn rocket on Thursday, transporting two NASA spacecraft en route to Mars. This marks just the rocket’s second flight, as both Blue Origin and NASA anticipate it will eventually carry personnel and supplies to the moon.

Soaring to a height of 321 feet (98 meters), the New Glenn rocket burst into the afternoon sky from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, initiating a lengthy journey for NASA’s twin Mars rovers to the Red Planet. The launch was delayed by four days due to inclement weather and a solar storm, which created auroras visible as far south as Florida.

In a significant achievement for the emerging company, Blue Origin successfully retrieved the booster after its separation from the upper stage and the Mars rover. This step is vital for cost reduction and reusability, mirroring SpaceX’s operational model. Company employees erupted in cheers as the booster landed upright on a barge 375 miles (600 kilometers) offshore, with an elated Bezos observing from launch control.

“Next time it’s the moon!” the employees chanted excitedly after the centerpiece of the booster landed. Twenty minutes later, the upper stage of the rocket deployed the two Mars rovers into space, fulfilling the primary goal of the mission.

The New Glenn conducted its inaugural test flight in January, successfully placing a prototype satellite into orbit, though it did not manage to land its booster on a floating platform in the Atlantic Ocean.

The twin Mars rover, named Escapade, will remain near Earth for a year at a distance of 1 mile (1.5 kilometers). Once Earth and Mars are ideally aligned next fall, they will utilize gravity assist from Earth to travel to the Red Planet, with an expected arrival in 2027.

During its orbit around Mars, the spacecraft will map the planet’s upper atmosphere and diffuse magnetic field, studying their interactions with solar wind. The data collected will enhance understanding of the processes driving the loss of Mars’ atmosphere and provide insights into how the planet transitioned from a wet and warm environment to its current dry and dusty state. Researchers will also investigate ways to protect astronauts from the intense radiation present on Mars.

“We are eager to gain a deeper understanding of how the solar wind interacts with Mars,” stated Escapade’s lead scientist Rob Lillis from the University of California, Berkeley, ahead of the launch. “Escapade offers a unique opportunity with two spacecraft operating simultaneously, granting us an unprecedented stereo perspective.”

This relatively cost-effective mission is budgeted at less than $80 million and is managed by the University of California, Berkeley. Initially slated for last fall, the launch of the Mars rover was postponed due to issues related to Blue Origin’s new rocket.

The New Glenn rocket, named in honor of John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth, is significantly larger than Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket, which caters to affluent passengers traveling to the edge of space from West Texas. Blue Origin is also set to launch a demonstration mission for its prototype lunar lander, Blue Moon, aboard New Glenn in the upcoming months.

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Founded in 2000 by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Blue Origin holds a contract with NASA for the third astronaut lunar landing under the Artemis program. In contrast, SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, utilized its Starship rocket—approximately 100 feet (30 meters) taller than New Glenn—to successfully complete the first two crewed lunar landings.

However, last month, NASA’s acting administrator Sean Duffy reinstated the contract for the initial manned moon landing, expressing concerns regarding the pace of progress on Starship’s testing from Texas. Both Blue Origin and SpaceX have put forth preliminary plans for landing.

Plans are underway for NASA to send astronauts around the moon early next year using its own Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, followed by the Artemis crew’s attempt to land. The space agency aims to surpass China’s mission and return astronauts to the moon within the next decade.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Water-formed Caves on Mars Might Harbor Evidence of Ancient Life

Posted on November 11, 2025 by

Caves in the Hebrus Valley of Mars may have been sculpted by ancient water flows

NASA Mars Earth Surveyor

Subsurface caves shaped by flowing water on Mars may have provided ideal conditions for life, with potential remnants still present today.

Throughout Mars, numerous openings resembling cave entrances are found, primarily near volcanic regions. This implies these features were likely formed by processes related to volcanic activity rather than water.

Earth is home to numerous karst caves, created by the dissolution of soluble rock by water. However, scientists have yet to find equivalent caves on Mars, despite evidence indicating the planet was once covered in water billions of years ago.

Currently, Ding Vermicelli, a professor at Shenzhen University in China, has identified eight caves that seem to have been formed by ancient water flows instead of volcanic activity. These caves are situated in the Hebrus Gorge, a northwestern region characterized by extensive valleys and depressions likely shaped by ancient floods.

Previous Mars missions, including NASA’s Mars Global Surveyor (which orbited Mars from 1997 to 2006), have mapped these caves. Ding and his team analyzed material near one cave entrance using spectroscopic data from that mission, revealing a notable presence of carbonate and sulfate minerals typically associated with water.

They also detected signs of an ancient stream ending near the cave entrance, similar to patterns seen near karst caves on Earth. James Baldini from Durham University, UK, noted, “On a map, you’d expect a river to emerge to the surface only to disappear suddenly, as the cave system absorbs its water.”

Daniel Le Corret from the University of Kent in the UK mentioned that while the mineralogical and geological data implies these may be water caves, they appear quite similar to other Martian caves of volcanic origin. “I’ve spent countless hours evaluating the global catalog of Martian caves and these resemble known volcanic formations,” he said.

If these caves are indeed formed by water, they might be excellent locations for searching for life. “For life to exist, water and a protective environment from Mars’ intense surface radiation are essential,” Baldini remarked. “Volcanic caves and lava tubes also present good avenues for potential life, though they don’t necessarily involve water.”

Mars’ water caves may contain stalagmites—bulbous rock formations generally found in Earth’s karst caves—and could act as time capsules of Mars’ ancient climate conditions, such as temperature.

However, stalagmites require thousands of years of sustained water flow to develop, and determining their formation timing could be challenging, even if rovers or drones succeed in collecting samples, according to Baldini.

Mysteries of the Universe: Cheshire, England

Join a weekend with some of science’s leading minds as you delve into the enigmas of the universe, featuring a tour of the renowned Lovell Telescope.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Study Shows Baker’s Yeast Can Endure Stress Conditions Similar to Mars

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Investigating the potential for life to endure under extraterrestrial circumstances is a key aim of astrobiology. In this recent study, researchers utilized the robust model organism, baker’s yeast, to evaluate the impact of Mars-like environments. They discovered that the yeast can resist shock waves and perchlorate treatment, two stress factors linked to Mars. Furthermore, yeast adapt to Martian-like conditions by forming conserved RNA-protein complexes.

A model demonstrating the significance of RNP condensates in facilitating survival under Mars-like stress conditions. Image credit: Dhage et al., doi: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgaf300.

“With advancements in space science and astrobiology, examining Mars’s potential to harbor life forms is gaining considerable interest,” stated Dr. Purusharth Rajguru and his team at the Indian Institute of Science.

“Mars presents a range of extreme environmental challenges that any potential life forms would need to overcome.”

“Hence, it is essential to comprehend its unique and harsh environmental conditions.”

“The stressors on Mars include: (i) high-intensity shock waves from meteorite impacts, (ii) extreme fluctuations in temperature and pressure, (iii) ionizing radiation and solar ultraviolet radiation resulting from a thin atmosphere, and (iv) chaotropic agents such as perchlorates.”

“These factors create significant barriers to the survival of potential life.”

In this investigation, the researchers examined budding yeast, a well-known model organism for studying shock waves and perchlorate.

One reason for selecting this yeast is its previous studies conducted in space environments.

When subjected to stress, yeast, humans, and various other organisms form ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensates, structures composed of RNA and proteins that safeguard the RNA and influence the progression of mRNA.

When a stressor subsides, RNP condensates, which include stress granules and subtypes called P bodies, disassemble.

Yeast subjected to a shock wave with a Mach strength of 5.6 survived, exhibiting slower growth rates, similar to those observed in yeast exposed to 100 mM sodium perchlorate salt (NaClO₄)—a concentration akin to that found in Martian soil.

The yeast cells also endured the combined stress of shock waves and perchlorate exposure.

In both situations, the yeast accumulated RNP condensates, the researchers noted.

The shock wave triggered the formation of stress granules and P bodies, while perchlorate prompted the yeast to generate P bodies but not stress granules.

Mutants that were unable to assemble RNP condensates fared poorer under Martian stress conditions.

Transcriptome analysis uncovered specific RNA transcripts affected by the Mars-like scenarios.

“This finding highlights the significance of yeast and RNP condensates in understanding how Martian conditions affect life,” the scientists concluded.

For further details, refer to their paper published in today’s issue of PNAS Nexus.

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Riya Dage et al. 2025. Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensates regulate survival in response to Mars-like stress conditions. PNAS Nexus 4(10):pgaf300; doi: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgaf300

Source: www.sci.news

Researchers Discover That “Linear Dune Canyons” on Mars Were Formed by Sliding Carbon Dioxide Ice Blocks

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Parallel channels known as linear dune canyons can be observed within some of Mars’ dunes. Contrary to what their name suggests, these canyons are frequently quite winding. It was previously believed that these landforms were created through debris flow processes influenced by liquid water. However, recent satellite imagery has revealed that they are active during the local spring due to processes involving carbon dioxide ice. During the Martian winter, ice accumulates on the dunes, breaking off at the top as temperatures rise in early spring. In new experiments conducted in the Mars Chamber, planetary researchers from Utrecht University, the University of Le Mans, the University of Nantes, the Grenoble Institute of Astrophysics, and the Open University have demonstrated that linear dune canyons form when blocks of carbon dioxide and ice slide or submerge into the sandy slopes of dunes, or shift downwards with considerable force, draining the nearby sand. This drilling action is triggered by a powerful gas flow generated by the sublimation of carbon dioxide ice, as it transitions into carbon dioxide gas. The movement of sliding carbon dioxide ice blocks contributes to the formation of shallow channels, while the excavation of carbon dioxide ice results in the development of deep, winding channels in Martian dunes.

Two examples of Martian dunes with linear dune gullies: (a) linear dune gullies in the dune field of Gall Crater; (b) A linear dune canyon in the dune field of an unnamed crater in the center of the Hellas Plain. Image credit: Roelofs et al., doi:10.1029/2024GL112860.

Linear dune canyons are remarkable and enigmatic formations located in the mid-latitude sand dune regions of Mars.

Despite their designation, these parallel and often meandering waterways, characterized by sharp bends, limited source areas, distinct banks, and hole-like channel terminations, have no equivalent on Earth.

They differ significantly from the conventional canyon topography found on steep slopes both on Mars and Earth, which typically features erosional alcoves, channels, and sedimentary aprons that are often larger than linear dune canyons.

“In our simulations, we observed how high gas pressures cause the sand to shift in all directions around the blocks,” stated Loneke Roelofs, a researcher at Utrecht University and lead author of the study.

“Consequently, the blocks become lodged into the slope and get trapped within cavities, surrounded by small ridges of settled sand.”

“However, the sublimation process persists, leading to continued sand displacement in all directions.”

“This phenomenon drives the block to gradually descend, resulting in a long, deep canyon flanked by small sand ridges on either side.”

“This is precisely the kind of canyon we find on Mars.”

In their research, Dr. Roelofs and colleagues merged laboratory experiments that let blocks of carbon dioxide and ice slide down sandy slopes under Martian atmospheric pressure with observations of the linear dune canyons located within the Russell Crater Giant Dunes.

“We experimented by simulating dune slopes of varying steepness.”

“We released chunks of carbon dioxide ice down a slope and observed the outcomes.”

“Once we discovered an appropriate slope, we began to see significant effects. The carbon dioxide ice chunks started to penetrate the slope and move downwards, resembling burrowing moles or dune sandworms. It was quite an unusual sight.”

“But how exactly do these ice blocks originate? They form in the desert dunes located in the midlands of Mars’ southern hemisphere.”

“During winter, a layer of carbon dioxide ice develops across the entire surface of the dunes, reaching thicknesses of up to 70 cm. As spring arrives, this ice begins to warm and sublimate.”

“The last remnants of the ice persist on the shaded side of the dune’s summit, where blocks will break off once temperatures rise sufficiently.”

“When a block reaches the base of the slope and halts its movement, sublimation continues until all carbon dioxide evaporates, leaving behind a cavity filled with sand at the dune’s base.”

This study was published in the October 8th issue of Geophysical Research Letters.

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Loneke Roelofs et al. 2025. Particle transport driven by explosive sublimation causes blocks of CO2 to slide and burrow, forming winding “linear dune valleys” in Martian dunes. Geophysical Research Letters 52 (19): e2024GL112860; doi: 10.1029/2024GL112860

Source: www.sci.news

Mars Volcanoes Might Have Relocated Ice to the Planet’s Equator

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Ancient volcanic eruptions on Mars may have led to ice deposits near the planet’s equator

Ron Miller/Science Photo Library

The hottest regions on Mars conceal an unexpectedly dense layer of ice beneath their surface, and researchers might have unraveled its origins. This water could have journeyed from the planet’s interior via peculiar volcanic eruptions billions of years ago, making it a vital resource for future human expeditions.

While Mars is known for its polar ice caps, recent radar data from orbiting satellites indicates that ice also exists in equatorial zones. “There’s a frozen layer at the equator, which is curious given that it’s the warmest area of the planet,” says Saira Hamid from Arizona State University. At high noon, temperatures around the equator can soar to approximately 20°C (68°F).

Hamid and her team conducted simulations of volcanic activity on Mars, revealing that explosive eruptions could have propelled water from the interior into the atmosphere over extensive periods. In ancient times, Mars boasted a denser atmosphere conducive to freeze and snowfall, leading to the ice layers observed today. “This narrative intertwines fire and ice,” adds Hamid.

These eruptions would have differed substantially from those on Earth. Mars’ reduced gravity allows volcanic ash, water, and sulfur plumes to ascend as high as 65 kilometers (65 kilometers) above Earth’s surface, and under certain atmospheric conditions during eruptions, even reach space.

As snow accumulates, the water compresses into muddied ice layers, shielded by a blanket of volcanic ash. This covering prevents the ice from sublimating into space and has contributed to its preservation to the present day.

“The potential for such ice-laden deposits poses challenges for many,” comments Tom Watters from the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. A notable source of confusion is the massive Medusa Fosse Formation near Mars’ equator. “If the water anticipated in the Medusa Fosse Formation were to melt, it could fill the Great Lakes. That’s a substantial volume of water.”

Another theory for the ice’s formation suggests that Mars’ axial tilt may have changed drastically over time, potentially shifting equatorial areas to pole-like conditions. “However, these volcanic eruptions are sufficient to generate ice without requiring shifts in axial tilt,” Hamid pointed out. “It’s the simpler explanation.”

Equatorial regions are also prime sites for landing missions to Mars because the faint atmosphere thickens in these areas, helping to decelerate landers approaching the surface. The availability of water there could be crucial for future human missions, although initial missions may not exploit this resource. Subsequent landings could benefit from the ice.

“On our inaugural trips, we intend to carry plenty of water, just in case we misinterpret our radar readings,” says Watters. “Without enough water, venturing out with only a shovel expecting to strike water is unwise. Bring a shovel, but also ensure you have sufficient water.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Blue Planet Red Review: Missteps on Mars Make for a Surprisingly Disturbing Documentary

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

This image seems to show a Martian wrench, but it’s just a stone

Brian Cory Dobbs Productions

Handout materials for the movie 'Blue Planet Red.' The Spirit rover captured two peculiar rocks resembling a wrench and a container. See more at https://blueplanetred.net/images — This image seems to show a Martian wrench, but it’s just a stone

Brian Cory Dobbs Productions

Blue Planet Red
Directed by Brian Corrie Dobbs, available on Amazon Prime Video

Blue Planet Red is a documentary focused on Mars. The world depicted by director Brian Corrie Dobbs diverges from our understanding but certainly possesses its allure. It showcases an advanced civilization of pyramid builders that either failed to avert their world’s demise or destroyed it through a catastrophic nuclear conflict.

Dobbs presents his assertions regarding advanced Martian life directly to the audience, complete with expressive gestures and confident poses. I found him quite engaging. Yet, after viewing his work, I wasn’t surprised to discover that a section of his portfolio includes questionable content (referring to dubious videos concerning cell phones, electromagnetic fields, and cancer).

Whether by design or not, Blue Planet Red serves as a historical record. It is a testament to a generation of researchers and enthusiasts raised under the imposing shadow of a two-kilometer geological mound in the Martian region of Sidonia. Back in 1976, NASA’s Viking spacecraft took a blurry photo of what seemed to be a giant human face, known as the “Face of Mars,” at the intersection of Mars’ southern highlands and northern plains.

There’s no need to delve into debunking topics that have already been convincingly dismantled many times before. If you enhance the resolution of the image, the so-called face vanishes. Features resembling tools or bones are simply rocks. Additionally, the presence of xenon-129 in Mars’ atmosphere suggests an ancient nuclear war only if we disregard the well-understood decay process of the now-extinct isotope iodine-129 into xenon-129 within Mars’ cooling lithosphere.

“
The ambiguous data from the Viking orbiters fostered the growth of fanciful ideas
“

Yet, capturing this narrative holds a certain poignancy. Transforming Ideas gives voice to this generation of researchers. Individuals featured in the film include Richard Bryce Hoover, who led NASA’s astrobiology research at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama until 2011, where he helped prove the existence of extremophiles on Earth. He is convinced he discovered microfossils in Martian meteorites. However, despite his enthusiasm, director Hoover fails to clarify in the film why these fossils rest atop the rock samples rather than embedded within them.

Contributor John Brandenburg is regarded as a respectable plasma scientist, provided he avoids discussing nuclear war on Mars. Mark Carlot, on the other hand, has dedicated 40 years to chronicling remnants of civilization on Mars while others merely see rocks. Upon returning to Earth, he proves to be an adept archaeologist.

After Apollo made its final moon landing in 1972, the initial thrill of the space race began to diminish. The images transmitted back by the Viking spacecraft signaled the next significant discovery. This hazy mixture of revolutionary yet unclear data served as a fertile ground for the emergence of fanciful ideas, particularly in the United States, where the Vietnam War and Watergate bred skepticism and paranoia.

Dobbs’ dynamic recounting of the Martian narrative frames it as a tale of an event occurring 3.7 billion years ago when the wet, warm planet transitioned into a barren dust bowl. For me, it resonates more with what happened to the passionate groups glued to their screens and magazines in the 1970s. Let us momentarily set aside our disdain and engage with this generation. Strong hope should never again hinder a kind heart like this.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Images from Mars Capture Interstellar Comet 3i/Atlas

Posted on October 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The bright area represents the comet’s core, which consists of a dense mixture of ice, rock, and dust. Typically, the nucleus is enveloped in a cloud of gas and dust known as a coma.

Since being discovered in July, Comet 3i/Atlas has captivated both astronomers and space enthusiasts. There have been intriguing theories suggesting it could be alien technology or a spacecraft, though no scientific backing exists for these ideas.

The comet is not stationary.

Researchers tracking its trajectory project that the comet will make its closest approach to the sun around October 30, as its orbit navigates through the inner solar system in the following weeks.

NASA has stated that 3i/Atlas poses no risk to Earth, maintaining a distance of about 170 million miles during its pass.

However, its near pass of Mars provided a unique observational opportunity.

The ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter, jointly run by the ESA and Russia’s Federal Space Agency, directed its cameras at the comet for approximately a week starting October 1, officials from ESA noted. At that point, 3i/Atlas was roughly 18.6 million miles from the spacecraft.

Despite this, the orbiter’s instruments are primarily designed for imaging the Martian surface rather than distant objects, as explained by Nick Thomas, principal investigator for the imaging system.

“This posed a significant challenge for our instruments,” he stated in a statement. “Comets are approximately 10,000 to 100,000 times less dense than typical targets.”

Other interstellar visitors to our solar system include Oumuamua in 2017 and 2i/Borisov in 2019.

ESA emphasized, “All celestial bodies in our solar system share a common origin, but interstellar comets are unique outsiders, providing insights into the formation of distant worlds.”

As 3i/Atlas travels through our solar system, astronomers are eager to analyze its size and physical characteristics. Earlier this year, it was visible through ground-based telescopes, but it’s currently too close to the sun for observation. It is expected to reappear on the opposite side of the sun by early December, according to NASA.

NASA is tracking 3i/Atlas with the Hubble Space Telescope and plans additional observations in the upcoming months. The James Webb Space Telescope, Spherex Space Observatory, Parker Solar Probe, and the Exoplanet Survey Satellite are among the instruments hoping to catch a glimpse of the comet.

A photo taken recently by the Saturday camera captured streaks of light, leading to speculation online that it could be Comet 3i/Atlas. However, NASA has not confirmed this, and their public information office is currently closed due to the government shutdown.

ESA’s Mars Express spacecraft did focus its camera on the comet as it passed, although further analysis will be required to distinguish interstellar objects from the gathered data.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Planetary Scientists Uncover New Minerals on Mars

Posted on October 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The recently identified mineral, Phalic Hydroxysullate, sheds light on the environmental conditions and history of Mars, hinting at potential past volcanic, ash, or hydrothermal activities.

A distinct spectral unit on the Juventue Plateau on Mars. Image credit: Bishop et al, doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-61801-2.

The compact reconnaissance imaging spectrometer (CRISM) on NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter has gathered hyperspectral data, enabling the mapping of numerous minerals that enhance our understanding of Mars’ ancient geochemical history.

Various sulfate minerals have been identified both from orbit and during landing missions, utilizing spectral parameters, X-ray diffraction, and elemental composition to compare with minerals found on Earth.

In 2010, a unique spectral band was detected in the CRISM data from Mars, specifically on the plateau near Juvento Chasma and within the eroded impact crater Arum Chaos.

This spectral band did not match any known minerals, presenting challenges in mineral identification for over 15 years.

Initial laboratory studies suggested that dehydrated iron sulfate could be the source of this unidentified material.

“The data obtained from spectrometers can’t be utilized in that manner,” explains Dr. Mario Parent, a researcher at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

“Data adjustments are necessary to account for atmospheric effects.”

“The sunlight reflecting off the minerals and CRISM passes through the Martian atmosphere twice,” he continues. “There are scattering molecules and gases that absorb light.” For instance, Mars has a high concentration of carbon dioxide, which can distort the data.

By employing a deep learning artificial intelligence method, researchers can map both known and unknown minerals, automatically identifying anomalies in individual image pixels.

This technique has revealed additional locations with similar spectral bands and clarified other spectral features.

With refined properties, researchers were able to replicate the minerals in the lab and identify the enigmatic compound as hydroxysulfate.

“Materials formed in laboratory conditions may represent new minerals due to their unique crystal structure and thermal durability,” states Dr. Janice Bishop, a researcher at the SETI Institute and NASA’s Ames Research Center.

“However, it is imperative to find them on Earth to officially classify them as new minerals.”

Hydroxyacids are formed at elevated temperatures (50-100 degrees Celsius) in the presence of oxygen and water under acidic conditions.

“When will we observe this material once we develop a mineral attribution and obtain the necessary indicators of a specific material?” Dr. Parente questions.

Scientists deduced that it formed in Arum Chaos due to geothermal heat, while the same minerals likely originated in Juvento from volcanic activity involving ash or lava.

They speculate this may have occurred during the Amazonian era, which is estimated to be under 3 billion years ago.

“Factors such as temperature, pressure, and pH are critical indicators of what the paleoclimate was like,” states Dr. Parente.

“The existence of this mineral adds depth to our understanding of Martian processes.”

“Some regions of Mars have been chemically and thermally altered more recently than previously thought, providing new insights into the planet’s dynamic surface and its potential to support life.”

Study published in the journal Nature Communications.

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Jl Bishop et al. 2025. The properties of iron hydroxythrusa acid on Mars and the implications of the geochemical environment that supports its formation. Nat commun 16, 7020; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-61801-2

Source: www.sci.news

The Only Earth Creatures Capable of Surviving on Mars

Posted on September 21, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mars is a quite an intimidating environment for life forms accustomed to Earth. The average surface temperature hovers around -63°C (-81°F), and temperatures only manage to rise slightly above freezing near the equator during summer.

Moreover, the atmospheric pressure is equivalent to that found on Earth at an altitude of 35km (almost 115,000 feet), well above the cruising altitude of commercial flights. This sparse atmosphere is predominantly carbon dioxide, containing only minimal amounts of oxygen.

Additionally, liquid water is virtually nonexistent on Mars, with radiation levels being 400 times greater than those on Earth, and only rare instances of extremely saline trickles.

Nonetheless, certain Earth organisms have shown a remarkable ability to endure such harsh conditions.

The European Space Agency conducted a series of experiments between 2008 and 2016, exposing various organisms and seeds to simulated Martian conditions aboard the International Space Station.

Tardigrades, fungi, and some bacteria survived for over a year, but solely in dormant forms, such as spores and cysts.

Some lichens and algae went a step further, demonstrating actual metabolic activity when partially shielded from radiation—this could occur on Mars if they are embedded in soil or hidden within rock crevices.

In 2024, Chinese researchers discovered that various desert moss species (Syntrichia caninervis) could endure simulated Martian conditions. However, “tolerance” is far from thriving in such an environment.

Although the moss was able to recover after a week in the simulated Martian environment and returned to normal growth, researchers did not find evidence of metabolic activity, such as oxygen production, within the Martian setting.

But the challenges are even greater.

Mars has an average surface temperature of -63°C (-81°F) and an atmospheric pressure that corresponds to 35km (nearly 115,000 feet), along with radiation levels that are 400 times higher than on Earth.

Mars soil contains perchlorate, a problematic oxidizer that is toxic to cell functions and leads to DNA damage. Exposure to the ultraviolet radiation prevalent on Mars makes it even more reactive.

The Chinese experiments did not simulate perchlorate presence in the Martian environment. Had it been included, it likely would have obliterated the moss entirely.

Some fungi survive perchlorate, and several bacterial species can utilize it as an energy source, even breaking it down into harmless by-products. However, these species still require water and warmth to thrive.

Typically, when we store items, we employ various methods to eliminate bacteria and fungi or inhibit their growth.

We freeze food, dehydrate it, sterilize with UV light, soak it in saline solutions, or seal it in oxygen-removing containers. On Mars, all these methods are naturally enforced!

If we aimed to sterilize a planet, we could hardly surpass the existing conditions on Mars.

This article addresses the inquiry posed by Robin Mason of Manchester: “Is there anything on Earth that can withstand Martian conditions?”

Please send your questions via email to Question @sciencefocus.com, or reach us through Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram Page (please include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Mars’ Mysterious Markings: The ‘Most Obvious Signs’ of Alien Life, According to NASA

Posted on September 21, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The unusual “leopard spot” markings on Mars’ rocks might finally indicate that alien microbes could have existed on the Red Planet.

A comprehensive analysis of these rocks has shown that the intricate patterns are “the clearest signs ever found on Mars,” as stated by Sean Duffy, a NASA representative.

These rocks, estimated to be about 3.5 billion years old, were discovered in July 2024 by NASA’s Perseverance rover. Since then, planetary scientists have been exploring various hypotheses to explain these markings.

Recent information from a Nature paper suggests that while the patterns may have a geological origin, the prevailing theory now points toward ancient Martian microbes as the likely culprits.

Perseverance collected rock samples, hoping to yield a more definitive answer. If all goes well, these samples will eventually return to Earth for a thorough examination of potential signs of past life.

Leopard Spots on Bright Angel

Currently, Mars is a barren, lifeless world, but this hasn’t always been the case. Until around 3 billion years ago, Mars’ surface was rich with flowing rivers and expansive lakes.

Wherever there is water on Earth, signs of life typically follow. For two decades, NASA’s rovers have been scouring Mars for evidence suggesting that the Red Planet could have once supported life.

The Perseverance rover is exploring a site known as Jezero Crater, which was a lake in Mars’ ancient history. Similar environments on Earth often serve as habitats for microorganisms.

Within rock formations referred to as the Bright Angel formation, Perseverance uncovered stunning patterns resembling leopard spots.

“We conducted extensive observations of the entire rock formation at Bright Angel,” said Professor Joel Hurowitz of Stony Brook University in the US, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

While Perseverance’s cameras captured detailed images of the patterns, a spectrometer analyzed the mineral composition. The rover even utilized radar to map the structure of the subsurface outcrop.

“Essentially, we used every tool available on these rocks except for the kitchen sink,” Hurowitz remarked.

The analysis indicated that the patterns were formed by iron-rich minerals called vivianite and greygite. On Earth, these minerals typically arise from “redox reactions,” a process in which microorganisms exchange electrons with their environment.

“On Earth, these reactions are often facilitated by microorganisms residing in sediments, which derive energy from them for metabolic activity,” Hurowitz explained. The residuals from these processes create distinctive patterns in sedimentary rocks.

However, this doesn’t mean we should rush to celebrate the discovery of alien life just yet. There are other mechanisms that could account for the leopard spot patterns without any biological influence.

For instance, heat could have driven reactions between mud and organic matter, resulting in new minerals.

Yet, the research team did not find evidence indicating that the rocks were subjected to heat. Additionally, other methods they investigated also did not seem viable. Nonetheless, Hurowitz cautioned, “We cannot dismiss these entirely.”

One of the most surprising findings is the relatively young age of these rocks. At only 3.5 billion years old, the patterns formed while Mars was already entering a phase of decline, suggesting that the planet may have been habitable for much longer than previously assumed.

Unfortunately, Perseverance has an entire planet to explore and we continue our quest to find life beyond Earth.

Perseverance drilling and photographing rock samples – Credit: NASA/JPL -CALTECH/MSSS

“If I could revisit Jezero in the future, I would have follow-up questions that I would like to address using the rover’s instruments,” Hurowitz remarked.

“However, these follow-up analyses may not necessarily provide a more conclusive answer regarding whether these features were shaped by life.”

“Ultimately, determining whether life was involved will necessitate laboratory analysis back on Earth.”

Bringing Mars to Earth

Fortunately, Perseverance is part of the initial phase of Mars’ sample return mission. Not only is it studying the rocks on Mars, but it’s also preparing to bring samples back to Earth.

Before departing from Bright Angel, the rover collected and stored samples from the rocks along with numerous similar fragments obtained during its mission on Mars.

NASA aims to collaborate with the European Space Agency on follow-up missions to retrieve these samples and return them to Earth where they can be analyzed in top-tier laboratories.

After 3.5 billion years, finding definitive evidence is challenging. Instead, researchers will seek additional signs that microbes may have left behind.

“The first logical step is to analyze the isotopic composition of iron, sulfur, and carbon in the various mineral and organic components of the rock,” Hurowitz stated.

Isotopes can be thought of as different variants of the same element. Microorganisms tend to retain particular isotopes more than their non-biological counterparts, enabling researchers to narrow down their search for evidence of life.

“These variations in isotopic composition are essential tools for investigating biological signals in ancient rocks on Earth, and we aim to apply similar methods to this Martian sample,” Hurowitz noted.

The return mission is tentatively scheduled for the 2030s, although there is a risk of cancellation due to cuts to NASA’s planetary exploration budget during the Trump administration.

“NASA is examining strategies for retrieving these samples and others,” a NASA spokesperson told BBC Science Focus. “Having explored Mars for 60 years, we will continue to look into budgetary and timing considerations for a quick and cost-effective return of these samples.”

“We hope these findings will further motivate the sample return mission,” Hurowitz added. “This will allow us to scrutinize the sample with the detail necessary to determine its historical record of life on Mars.”

“If it’s indeed life, that would suggest our planet is not the only one where life has evolved,” Frowitz concluded. “If life originated twice, how many other places might it have occurred?”

About Our Experts

Joel Hurowitz is an associate professor in the Department of Geoscience at Stony Brook University in New York, USA. He investigates the early history of Mars through measurements taken from planetary studies and Earth’s similar topographies.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Implications of Trump’s Space Strategy for Future Mars Missions

Posted on September 20, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Since January 2025, when Donald Trump returned to the White House, his administration has enacted severe funding cuts across various federal agencies, including NASA. The proposed 2026 Budget plans to decrease NASA’s institutional funding by as much as 24.3%.

This translates to a financial drop from $24.8 billion (£18.4 billion) allocated by Congress in 2025, to $18.8 billion (£13.9 billion) in 2026.

The president’s proposals are not law until they pass through Congress, where they will be scrutinized, debated, and revised in the coming months.

Nonetheless, this situation focuses attention on some key priorities Trump has outlined during his two terms in office.

Focus on Human Spaceflight

During Trump’s first term from 2017 to 2021, NASA’s budget increased from $19.5 billion (£15.5 billion) to $23.3 billion (£18.5 billion), which constitutes about 0.48% of federal spending.

Trump has reinstated the National Space Council, shaping US space policies with the US Space Force consolidating national security assets in the latest military setup.

His administration emphasizes human spaceflight, launching NASA’s Artemis program aimed at returning humans to the moon by 2024.

Although this timeline appears overly ambitious, Artemis II is still scheduled for a crewed mission around the moon in 2026. If all goes well, Artemis III may land on the lunar surface a few years later.

Near the close of his first term, Trump formalized the National Space Policy, committing to lunar exploration and future missions to Mars. This policy streamlined regulatory frameworks, increasing accessibility for the private sector.

Support for human spaceflight and exploration carried on into his second term.

In April, when announcing the NASA Budget, the White House asserted its intention to return American astronauts to the moon “before China,” which has ambitious plans for a lunar base by the 2030s.

“The proposal includes investments to pursue lunar and Mars exploration simultaneously but prioritizes vital science and technology research,” stated NASA Administrator Janet Petro, reinforcing that the agency would “continue to progress towards achieving the impossible.”

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Risk Projects Due to Budget Cuts

However, the budget cuts may hinder NASA’s ability to meet its goals, as it calls for “rationalizing the institutional workforce” while cutting many support services, including IT and maintenance.

The budget suggests cancelling the costly and delayed Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion Crew Capsule, both essential for long-range space missions like Artemis.

Instead, it proposes replacing them with “a more cost-effective commercial system” to facilitate subsequent missions.

According to the White House, SLS is operating at 140% over budget, costing $4 billion (£3.2 billion) per launch.

The SLS rocket completed an unmanned Artemis I mission in 2022, but as Trump’s budget advances, Artemis II will send astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen around the moon in 2026, with plans for lunar landings to follow.

Eliminating SLS and Orion, referred to as the “Legacy Human Exploration System” in Trump’s budget, could save $879 million (£698.5 million).

Artemis I’s Space Launch System Rocket Launch – Photo Credit: NASA

However, US lawmakers have expressed concerns about terminating the program, despite its notable expenses, as it has taken a decade to prepare for the flight, and cancellation could grant China a competitive advantage.

This sentiment was echoed by Texas Senator Ted Cruz: “It’s hard to think of more devastating mistakes,” he remarked during an April Senate hearing.

Another project earmarked for termination is the Lunar Gateway, a new space station intended to orbit the moon. Key hardware for this initiative has already been constructed in the US, Europe, Canada, and Japan.

While some missions might be salvaged, these cancellations risk alienating international partners that NASA has built relations with over decades.

Is There No More NASA Science?

The budget also threatens significant cuts to NASA’s Earth and Space Science Programs, with funding for the former at £1.16 billion (£921.7 million) and the latter at £2.655 billion (£2.1 billion).

“Are Mars and Venus habitable? How many Earth-like planets exist? We’re opting not to find out; such questions will remain unanswered,” the critique suggests.

The budget aims to terminate “multiple, affordable missions,” including long-term endeavors like the Mars Sample Return (MSR), which was deemed unsustainable.

This mission aims to uncover significant information about Mars’ past by analyzing rock and soil samples already collected by rovers currently exploring the planet.

Nonetheless, NASA acknowledged last year that the estimated cost of the MSR mission ballooned from $7 billion (£5.6 billion) to $11 billion (£8.7 billion), with its timeline pushed back from 2033 to 2040.

The proposed budget suggests that MSR goals may be achieved through crewed missions to Mars, aligning with Trump’s promise to “send American astronauts to plant the stars and stripes on Mars.”

However, China’s plans for a Mars sample return mission remain robust, with aspirations for execution in 2028, potentially prompting Congressional pushback against the MSR budget cancellation.

In Earth Sciences, the budget proposes cuts to various Earth monitoring satellites, many vital for tracking climate change.

Ground crews assist 19 astronauts as they return to Earth in April after a successful six-month mission aboard China’s Tiango Space Station – Photo Credit: Getty Images

The future of NASA’s Landsat Next is in question, which includes a trio of satellites set to launch in 2031 for monitoring Earth’s dynamic landscapes.

Meanwhile, several climate satellites and instruments currently operational, such as orbital carbon observatories and deep-sea climate stations, face closures even though they remain fully functional.

Another mission facing uncertainty is the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, scheduled for launch between 2026 and 2027, aimed at planetary exploration and investigating cosmic evolution.

This initiative is expected to be pivotal in understanding dark matter, dark energy, and answering fundamental questions about the universe.

Though Roman’s costs have escalated from an initial $2 billion (£1.6 billion) to over $3.2 billion (£2.5 billion), with 90% of the projected expenditure already incurred, the budget proposes reducing its development funding by $244 million (£133.9 million).

Ultimately, it remains unclear how the budget will be finalized as it awaits Congressional approval. Will these cuts devastate scientific progress, or usher in a new era of human exploration?

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Mars Once boasted a Thicker Atmosphere Than Earth’s Today

Posted on September 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Modern Mars has a minimal atmosphere

NASA/JPL/USGS

Mars’ atmosphere may have once been far thicker, providing a protective layer against the frequent asteroid impacts that destroyed other celestial bodies.

Our solar system began forming around 4 billion years ago, and by that time, Mars was nearly fully developed. The planet existed within a vast reservoir of hot gas and dust swirling around a youthful sun, known as the solar nebula, which some planets absorbed into their atmosphere. However, it was believed that as the solar nebula dissipated, Mars would lose this gas, resulting in a thinner atmosphere.

Recently, Sarah Jollett from Paris’ Collège de France and her team propose that Mars retained this gas for a longer period, forming a primordial atmosphere akin to a sustained soup.

Shortly after the nebula receded, it was believed that the orbits of significant planets like Jupiter and Saturn influenced each other, subsequently disturbing the paths of comets and asteroids that headed towards the inner solar system, impacting rocky planets. While chemical signatures of these impacts can be found on Earth, evidence on Mars remains limited.

“All terrestrial planets faced bombardments from comets during this time, and Mars was no exception, so we should observe remnants of this cometary assault on Mars,” Jollett stated at the Europlanet Science Congress held on September 11th in Helsinki, Finland.

Jollett and her colleagues suggest that the dense, hydrogen-rich atmosphere during this era may have diluted comet material that was available for absorption by Mars. By running simulations of the early solar system, they estimated the potential amount of material impacting Mars and compared it to the detectable quantity. They deduced that the original Martian atmosphere had a mass equivalent to 2.9 bars, around three times the atmospheric pressure we experience on the surface today.

However, this atmosphere dissipated relatively swiftly over about a million years, according to Raymond Pierre Hambart from Oxford University, who was not involved in the study. This loss primarily occurred before liquid water could come to the surface of Mars. The necessary clear atmospheric conditions, rich in carbon dioxide, were likely not present in that thick primordial atmosphere.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Mysterious Clouds on Mars Appear Annually—Here’s the Explanation.

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Unusual clouds form on the Arcia Mon, a volcano on Mars every year.

ESA/DLR/FU Berlin/J. Cowart CC by-sa 3.0 Igo

Arciamon's clouds — Unusual clouds form on the Arcia Mon, a volcano on Mars every year.

ESA/DLR/FU Berlin/J. Cowart CC by-sa 3.0 Igo

The delicate clouds that appear on Mars annually have intrigued astronomers since their initial discovery, likely stemming from a water-rich atmosphere that seems implausible.

Each winter, clouds spanning 1,800 kilometers form near the Arsia Mons, located in the southern hemisphere of Mars, emerging and dissipating daily for nearly three months. The atmospheric conditions on Mars vastly differ from Earth’s, notably with an abundance of fine dust particles that can cause water vapor in the atmosphere to condense into cloud particles. This results in cloud patterns unique to Mars, yet simulations accounting for these high dust levels do not replicate the distinct features of the Arsia Mons Cloud.

Now, Jorge Hernandez Bernal from the University of Sorbonne in France and his team propose that an exceptionally high amount of water vapor in the atmosphere could recreate these cloud characteristics. Elevated levels of water vapor aid in cloud particle formation through alternative dust-free processes known as homogeneous nucleation.

When researchers conducted atmospheric simulations around Arsia Mons that featured increased water content, the resulting cloud formations bore a striking resemblance to the actual clouds.

“Uniform nucleation necessitates much greater water levels on Mars. [Water] saturation is required. Initially, I believed this to be improbable or extremely unlikely on Mars,” said Hernandez Bernal at the Europlanet Science Congress (EPSC) on September 10th, held in Helsinki, Finland. “However, over the last decade, we’ve discovered that Mars can indeed exhibit supersaturation.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

NASA Hasn’t Discovered Life on Mars Yet, But Indicators Are Hopeful

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

NASA’s Perseverance Rover on Mars

NASA/JPL-Caltech

Has NASA Discovered Life on Mars?

In summary, no. However, last year, NASA’s diligent rover uncovered indications in ancient rocks that may suggest life existed on the Red Planet billions of years ago. Now, new evidence points to the unique structure of certain clay-rich minerals that might indicate biological origins.

Despite the excitement surrounding these findings, caution is essential: Astrobiologists Trust in detecting life employs strict criteria to evaluate evidence quality. Even the previous discoveries combined with today’s findings remain at initial stages.

What Did NASA Actually Discover?

Perseverance explored a lakebed known as Bright Angel in Jezero Crater last year when it encountered a rock displaying unusual markings referred to as “leopard spots” and “poppy seeds.” On Earth, these patterns are indicative of ancient microbial activity. Leopard spots are small, round dark marks, while poppy seeds are even tinier, darker particles.

Both types of markings are found in a rock named Chayaba Falls, after the Grand Canyon Falls, sandwiched between white layers of calcium sulfate—a mineral typically formed in the presence of water, crucial for life.

Today, NASA announced further intriguing discoveries. Clay-rich samples were found at two locations (one named Sapphire Canyon) along with those previously identified in Bright Angel, including small green spots of chemically reduced iron phosphate and iron sulfide minerals.

Map of Perseverance’s Course on Mars

NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona

How Are These Findings Related to Life?

On Earth, both leopard spots and poppy seeds are linked to signs of microbial activity. These redox reactions that produce energy during life processes leave colored deposits of iron and sulfur in their “reduced forms,” effectively indicating electron acquisition.

The markings found at Chayaba Falls may have resulted from either microbial actions or high-temperature reactions unrelated to life. Yet, the onboard instrument aboard Perseverance was used earlier this year to analyze the chemical composition of these markings, revealing that they contain a reduced form of mineral, suggesting a higher likelihood of biological activity.

Additionally, the newly identified rocks featuring green spots of chemically reduced materials, akin to earlier samples, may signal the presence of life. Their heterogeneous distribution is also directly related to organic compound concentrations, bolstering the hypothesis that they were produced by living organisms.

Joel Hurowitz from Stony Brook University, along with collaborators, commented in a newly published paper in the journal Nature: “The Bright Angel formation encompasses textures and chemical properties alongside organic signatures that warrant consideration as ‘potential biosignatures.’ However, definitive proof of life on Mars remains unestablished.”

How Can I View the Results?

Analyzing Chayaba Falls and the current samples on Mars is challenging. The best way to gain insight is by returning them to Earth for thorough examination.

Perseverance is tasked with storing these intriguing samples to be handed over to future missions that will physically return them to Earth, but this plan has faced setbacks. Proposals to reduce NASA’s budget during the Trump administration raised concerns about the fate of the Mars sample return mission, leaving collected samples on the Martian surface.

Team member Sanjeev Gupta from Imperial College, London stated that the new findings strengthen the case for funding the sample return mission. He added, “This is the first time we’ve observed evidence suggesting a biological process, and that fuels the excitement surrounding these samples, which we need to bring back.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzmw7uogdce

“Ultimately, retrieving samples from Mars, including those from Sapphire Canyon collected near Bright Angel formations, will offer the best opportunity to understand the processes that formed these unique features,” the team remarked.

Is There Anything I Can Explore on Mars?

When life emerged on Earth, it proliferated rapidly. Thus, a viable approach without a sample return mission is to look for similar formations. Can we find additional rocks with analogous characteristics?

“We are currently investigating ancient rocks outside Jezero Crater to see if they exhibit similar processes and characteristics. There’s always a chance we could revisit the same site to explore further,” Gupta explained. “However, realistically, we aim to return the sample to Earth for analysis in our laboratories, which remains our primary objective.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Frozen Evidence of Mars’ Turbulent Origins Found in Its Mantle, Study Indicates

Posted on August 29, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The mantle of Mars houses ancient fragments measuring up to 4 km in width from its formation, as revealed by an analysis of seismic data gathered by NASA’s InSight Mission.

The immense collisions during early Mars’ history resulted in a global ocean of magma. Image credit: Vadim Sadovski / Imperial College London.

The planet’s mantle serves as a significant layer, located between the crust and core, preserving vital evidence about its formation and evolution.

In contrast to Earth, where active plate tectonics constantly mix the mantle, Mars functions as a smaller planet with a single plate surface.

This results in considerably less mixing of the Martian mantle, which may retain records of early internal history, providing valuable insights into the formation and evolution of rocky worlds.

Utilizing data from NASA’s InSight Lander, Dr. Constantinos Charalambous from Imperial College London and his colleagues analyzed the seismic signatures of Marsquakes to better understand the composition of the Martian mantle.

They studied eight recorded quakes, including those triggered by the impact of meteorites, discovering that the arrival of high-frequency P-waves is consistently delayed as they traverse deeper regions of the mantle.

The authors suggest that these delays indicate variations in the composition of the mantle stretching over kilometers.

Given that Mars lacks plate tectonics and large-scale recycling processes, these minor irregularities are likely remnants of its formative history.

Investigating the heterogeneity of the Martian mantle implies that it results from an intense and destructive process, reflecting the significant events of the planet’s early history that caused extensive interior disruption and mixed both foreign and crustal materials at a planetary scale.

Furthermore, additional variations might have arisen from the vast ocean of crystallized magma formed during this aftermath.

Rather than being erased, these features were preserved as the Martian crust cooled and mantle convection ceased.

“The seismic signals displayed clear signs of interference while traveling deep within Mars,” Dr. Charalambous noted.

“This coincides with a mantle composed of structures originating from various compositions, representing Mars’ early remnants.”

“What occurred on Mars is that following these initial events, the surface hardened into a stagnant lid.”

“It became isolated from the mantle, entrapping ancient, chaotic features like planetary time capsules.”

“Our observations reveal the distribution of fractals, where energy from violent collisions exceeds an object’s strength.”

“This mirrors the effect seen when glass falls onto a tiled floor, akin to meteorite impacts with a planet. It results in the formation of both large and small fragments.”

“It’s astonishing that we can still detect this distribution today.”

“The Jet Propulsion Research Institute” stated Dr. Mark Panning, a researcher at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

“It’s exhilarating to witness scientists uncovering new findings through the earthquakes we observe!”

The team’s paper was published today in the journal Science.

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Constantinos Charalambous et al. 2025. Evidence of a highly uneven Mars mantle inferred from earthquake analysis. Science 389 (6763): 899-903; doi: 10.1126/science.adk4292

Source: www.sci.news

How Hot Spring Rocks Could Lead to Discovering Life on Mars – Demon

Posted on August 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

What if the secrets to discovering life on Mars lie hidden in our own environment? In the planet’s most extreme habitats, microbial life flourishes in unlikely places—from icy tundras to searing, acidic springs. These unique ecosystems not only support life but also preserve evidence of it. Among these, hot springs are particularly notable for generating distinctive silica-rich formations.Silica Center is capable of trapping remnants of ancient microbes.

Silica occurs when silica-laden water from hot springs rises, cools, and evaporates, leaving behind hardened silica that can encapsulate microorganisms, thus fossilizing them. NASA’s Spirit Rover discovered similar silica sinter in Gusev Crater on Mars, raising questions about whether these ancient Martian hot springs may also preserve signs of past life.

An international research team has revealed that fat-like molecules from cells, lipids, can endure alongside these silica sinters and might be detected using equipment akin to that on Martian rovers. These lipids can persist for millions of years and serve as chemical fossils, or biomarkers in the fossil record. They provide insights into the types of life that once existed in these environments, aiding scientists in reconstructing ancient ecosystems.

Researchers collected silica sintered samples from six hot springs in New Zealand’s Taupo volcanic region, where the waters range from 77°F to 203°F (25°C to 95°C) and vary in acidity. First, they extracted the lipids from the sintered material chemically. Next, they characterized these lipids using instruments that fragment the molecules into smaller components, identifying them by mass.Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was utilized.

The team employed GC-MS to identify a broad array of lipid molecules, including fatty acids, alcohols, sterols, and n-alkanes from the sinter. Most of these molecules likely originated from bacteria that either use sunlight or sulfate as an energy source, and such microorganisms are well-suited for extreme environments. Some lipids identified also stemmed from other sources, like algae and plants. The researchers interpreted this diversity of lipids as indicative of both ancient and contemporary microorganisms. They referred to the old fossilized communities preserved with newer ones in the silica, noting the mix of heat-altered and fresh compounds.

The shape and texture of sintered rocks were also found to influence the preservation of lipid biomarkers. A fine, pointed texture known as spicular sinter retained more lipids compared to knobbed or crusty types. These thorny textures form at the edges of hot spring pools where microorganisms interact with rapidly cooled silica-rich water, creating delicate silica structures that grow like small fingers. Researchers suggested that these fine textures offer protection to microorganisms against erosion and radiation. They believe these finger-like silica formations are particularly promising for detecting traces of past life on Mars, similar to those seen by the Spirit Rover.

To evaluate whether current Rover instruments could detect ancient lipids, researchers analyzed two silica sintered samples using techniques similar to those used by rovers.NASA’s Curiosity Rover employs a method called Pyrolysis-GC-MS, which does not require prior chemical extraction of lipids. The entire sample is heated until the molecules transform into gas, which is then analyzed.

In one sintered sample, the instrument successfully identified simple lipids commonly produced by organisms, such as n-alkanes, pristanes, and phytanes. In another sulfur-rich sample, it detected a sulfur-based compound known as thiophene, also found on Mars. However, the analysis did not reveal more complex biomarkers like hopane and sterols, likely because they were degraded by heat. Pyrolysis may result in quantities too small for GC-MS to detect.

Based on these findings, researchers concluded that current rover instruments can successfully detect simple and durable lipids but may overlook more delicate or complex ones. To enhance the likelihood of finding ancient biosignatures, the team recommended that future Mars missions adopt less destructive detection approaches. Despite these challenges, they suggested that silica-rich rocks, like those in the Gusev Crater, are prime targets for exploring evidence of ancient Martian life. By pinpointing the most suitable rock textures for lipid preservation that can be detected with existing rover technologies, scientists are one step closer to uncovering signs of life on Mars.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Curiosity Discovers Coral-Like Rocks on Mars

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On July 24, 2025, with 4,608 Mars Days, or Sols, into the mission, NASA’s Curiosity rover captured a stunning image of a wind-shaped rock resembling coral formations in Gale Crater on Mars.

This image of Papsolok was captured on July 24, 2025, by Curiosity’s Mahli instrument. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS.

One of the rocks shaped by the wind was photographed by Curiosity’s Mars Hand Lens Imager (Mahli), which is located on the end of the rover’s robotic arm.

“At the time this image was taken, it was known as Paposo, and the rock was roughly 5 cm (2 inches) from the Mahli,” a member of the Curiosity team stated.

On the same day, Curiosity observed another coral-like rock through a remote microimager, which is part of the ChemCam instrument.

This image of the wind-shaped rock was captured by Curiosity’s remote microimager on July 24, 2025. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS.

“Curiosity has identified many small features like these, which originated billions of years ago when liquid water existed on Mars,” the researchers noted.

“Minerals dissolved in water permeated the rock’s cracks, eventually drying and leaving behind hardened minerals.”

“Over years of wind erosion, surrounding rocks have been worn down, resulting in these distinctive shapes.”

“This natural process is commonly observed on Earth and also results in fascinating rock forms on Mars, including those that resemble flowers.”

Curiosity Rover took this selfie on October 11, 2019, at Glen Etive, where it drilled twice. Just to the left of the rover are two drill holes labeled Glen Etive 1 (right) and Glen Etive 2 (left). Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS.

Launched on November 26, 2011, Curiosity is the fourth rover the United States has dispatched to Mars.

The mission, overseen by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, involves nearly 500 scientists from the US and around the world.

Curiosity is exploring a 154 km (96 miles) wide crater and collecting rock, soil, and air samples for analysis.

The car-sized rover, comparable in height to a basketball player, utilizes its 2.1 m (7 feet) long arms to place tools near selected rocks for research.

Source: www.sci.news

Women’s Mission to Mars: An Opera on Acquiring the Red Planet’s Toxic Technical Resources

Posted on August 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Writing an opera centered around Mars? Mars represents more than just a celestial body; it embodies philosophy and ideology. Humanity’s perception of it evolves over time, mirroring the complex blend of beliefs, aspirations, dreams, and fears that characterize each era.

In 1965, NASA’s Mariner 4 flew by Mars, delivering the first detailed images of the red planet back to Earth. Before this mission, our knowledge of Mars was limited to telescope observations, where the planet was imagined as a lush environment that might harbor life. Mariner 4 unveiled a starkly different reality: a barren, cratered landscape devoid of life. President Lyndon B. Johnson declared, “It may just be that, as we know, it’s more unique than many people think, along with its humanity. We need to remember this.” The New York Times went even further.

Imagine life in the summer of 1965 if you hadn’t yet been born. In June, Ed White became the first American astronaut to walk in space. His experience was so profound that Soviet astronaut Alexei Leonov referred to it as “the saddest moment of my life” upon re-entering the capsule. Life Magazine celebrated White with a dedicated issue titled “A Glorious Walk in the Universe.” Shortly thereafter, images from Mariner 4 were broadcast, revealing Mars’s desolation. We had just entered a summer filled with dreams of the cosmos, a time of belief that we might not be alone; those dreams, however, were soon overshadowed.

Historic… The first female spaceflight crew including Lauren Sanchez, third from the left. Photo: Blue Origin Handout/EPA

Fast forward 60 years later, space and technology continue to captivate our attention. Spring was bustling with events. In April, the first all-female spaceflight led by then-fiance billionaire Jeff Bezos, Lauren Sanchez, launched using a rocket developed by Bezos’ Blue Origin. In May, another billionaire, Elon Musk, resigned amidst controversies surrounding Doge, all while sporting a “Occupied Mars” T-shirt.

In June, billionaire venture capitalist Peter Thiel shared in an interview with the New York Times, “Mars appears to be more than a science project. It’s a political undertaking.” By July, scientists presented findings at the National Astronomical Conference showing ancient riverbeds on Mars, challenging earlier beliefs regarding water on the planet. Sotheby’s auctioned a large piece of Martian meteorite for around $5.3 million (£4 million). Meanwhile, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at “preventing the federal government from overstepping.”

So, why create an opera about Mars? Because discussing Mars means exploring our own identities, aspirations for the future, and the mechanisms of current power dynamics.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/2qRYC5C4lI8?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="MARS | Trailer" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Watch the trailer for Mars

To write the opera about Mars, how do we proceed? First, we select a script. The choice of author Mark O’Connell was natural; we are both intrigued by AI, Silicon Valley, and the ideological currents that permeate everyday life, from transhumanism and futurism to rising concerns around fertility rates in Western nations.

Our research dives deep, adopting a Hard Science Fiction perspective. We begin with everyday logistics. How do astronauts exercise, eat, shower, and use the restroom? Can a pregnancy be carried to term in zero gravity or under Mars’ weaker gravitational pull, which is 38% of Earth’s? The answers vary, ranging from the benign (using advanced resistance exercise equipment) to the concerning (one option involves tying a woman to an underground centrifuge during pregnancy).

“I turned to AI,” remarked Walche and her co-director Tom Creed during rehearsals. Photo: Ste Murray

The vast distance from Earth to Mars (about 140 million miles) complicates real-time communication. I pondered the dynamics of relationships in a scenario where conversations could only happen through audio notes. Each line of inquiry led to more questions: If we find life on another planet, how will it alter our understanding of ourselves and the cosmos? Is there a legal framework in place? Does the 1967 Outer Space Treaty hold? Are we humans destined to repeat the harrowing patterns of colonization, or can we carve a different path?

Our opera centers around an all-female mission. Four astronauts—Svetlana, Sally, Judith, and Valentina—named after the first four women in space, board the spacecraft Buckminster en route to Mars. Their quest is to find water to support existing colonies.

Their journey is arduous, further complicated by the scant entertainment options and reruns of *The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills*. Upon nearing Mars, they learn that their mission has become the target of a hostile takeover by Shadowfax Ventures, helmed by libertarian billionaire Axel Parchment. They now face isolation, the looming specter of corporate authoritarianism, and the existential question of alien life.

As we dived into the plot, the next challenge was to creatively encompass this expansive narrative acoustically. I envisioned the actual sounds astronauts would experience in different space environments: the roar of rocket propulsion, the hum of life support systems, and mechanical sounds. We meticulously analyzed audio recordings from the International Space Station, crafting ways to replicate these auditory experiences.

The Irish National Opera’s production premiered
At the Galway Arts Festival in July. Photo: Pat Redmond

I immersed myself in hours of space audio—whistles, auroras, interstellar recordings from Voyager 1, and even humorous moments like Chris Hadfield’s lighthearted accounts of using the ISS restroom, alongside studies of various exoplanets. The community at Space Exploration Stack Exchange assisted with inquiries about musical instruments functioning in 38% gravity and the sound quality of trumpets and violins on Mars.

Interestingly, astronauts seem drawn to synth music. A playlist shared by Dutch astronaut Andre Kuipers revealed a taste for Vangelis, Mike Oldfield, and Brian Eno, leading me to incorporate synthesizers into both the orchestra and the spacecraft. For our antagonists, I leaned into AI to define their musical character, which was humorously labeled as “bad EDM.” They demonstrated a propensity for chaotic sounds, driving me to explore genres like “Bro Step” and “Fashwave.”

In our opera, the astronauts confront the challenges of a troubling future, resilient against the odds. Our vision, shaped by Mark’s and my imagination, captures not only resistance and hope but also moments of rebellion and joy. Throughout the summer, our team remained aware of the stark human challenges and anxieties outside the rehearsal space. This awareness drove us to explore the significance of our own world, amidst a perceived power dynamic favoring a select few wealthy individuals imposing their will on the greater populace.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Understanding Frost Formation on Mars – Sciworthy

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Picture a winter morning where everything glistens in white. The morning frost serves as a testament to Earth’s water cycle, with dew forming from the chilled air overnight. A similar phenomenon occurs on Mars, situated 63 million miles (or 102 million kilometers) away, presenting scientists with a unique opportunity to understand how water behaves on the red planet.

A group of researchers led by Dr. Valantinus from the University of Bern has uncovered evidence suggesting that morning frost may indeed exist on Mars. They identified this potential frost in bowl-shaped formations known as Calderas at the summit of the Tharsis Volcano. Among these volcanoes, Olympus Mons stands out as it towers over Mount Everest—more than double its height—reaching 21 km (approximately 13 miles) above sea level, making it the tallest volcano in the solar system.

Earlier studies estimated that around 1 trillion kilograms (approximately 2.2 trillion pounds) of water vapor cycles through Mars’ atmosphere annually between its northern and southern hemispheres. The massive Tharsis volcano disrupts this water flow due to its significant elevation, creating areas with lower pressure and wind speed referred to as Microclimates. The Valantinus team concentrated on this region, which produces optimal conditions for frost development in the microclimate above the volcano, increasing the likelihood of water vapor condensing to form frost.

To search for potential frost, the team analyzed thousands of spectral images captured by a color and stereo surface imaging system called Cassis, part of the European Space Agency’s Trace Gas Orbiter satellite orbiting Mars. They noted that the bright bluish tint in the area might indicate frost. By focusing on images with cooler tones, they set out to gather more evidence supporting the presence of frost.

To accomplish this, the team utilized a tool capable of detecting the composition of materials based on light wavelengths, known as a Spectrometer. A spectrometer onboard the Trace Gas Orbiter, named NOMAD, yielded ice readings concurrent with Cassis images. By combining Cassis imagery with NOMAD spectrometer data and additional high-resolution stereo camera images, the researchers pinpointed frosts in 13 distinct locations related to Mars’ volcanoes.

The Valantinus team anticipated that observations would reveal frost, but they needed to identify its type. Mars possesses a carbon dioxide atmosphere, which means carbon dioxide frost can naturally appear on the planet’s surface. To differentiate between carbon dioxide and water frost, researchers analyzed the surface temperatures on Mars.

They noted that the temperature at which carbon dioxide frost forms on Mars is around -130°C (-200°F), resulting in the conversion of solid carbon dioxide to gas as temperatures rise. Conversely, water frost appears at about -90°C (-140°F). Using a general circulation model, the team estimated that the average surface temperature in the areas where frost was discovered is roughly -110°C (-170°F), a temperature too warm for carbon dioxide frost but sufficiently cool for water frost.

Observations revealed frost deposits along the floors and edges of the volcanic calderas, while bright, warm areas inside the caldera lacked these deposits. The team also observed that some frost partially rested on dust-like particles on the ground, which cool down more at night and warm gradually in the morning, providing an ideal surface for frost. Additionally, frost was only evident during the early mornings on Mars, likely due to the daily warming cycle of the planet’s surface, similar to Earth.

The Valantinus team utilized imaging and chemical measurements on Mars to track the exchange of water between the planet’s surface and atmosphere. They recommend that future researchers continue to monitor Cassis images in these regions to deepen understanding of how morning frosts develop on Mars.

For alternative perspectives on this article, please see summary by Paige Lebman, a University of Delaware student.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Underground Microbial Life Could Endure on Mars, Europa, and Enceladus with the Help of Cosmic Rays

Posted on July 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study conducted by New York University Abu Dhabi suggests that radiolysis, triggered by cosmic rays in galaxies, may serve as a potential energy source for microbial metabolism within the subsurface environments of rocky celestial bodies such as Mars, Europa, and Enceladus.

NASA’s Cassini spacecraft captured this stunning mosaic of Enceladus as it flew past this geologically active moon of Saturn on October 5, 2008. Image credit: NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute.

While ionized radiation is known for its detrimental effects on biological systems, such as causing damage to DNA and generating reactive oxygen species, it can also yield biologically beneficial outcomes.

Though direct exposure to high radiation levels can be harmful to biological activity, ionizing radiation can create numerous biologically useful products.

One such process involves the generation of valuable biological products through charged particle-induced radiolysis.

“We investigated the consequences of cosmic rays striking surfaces containing water or ice,” noted Dr. Dimitra Atli, PhD, from New York University Abu Dhabi, alongside colleagues from Washington University, the University of Tennessee, Rice University, and Santander University.

“The impact of these rays breaks down water molecules and releases tiny particles known as electrons.”

“Certain bacteria on Earth are capable of utilizing these electrons for energy, akin to how plants harness sunlight.”

“This phenomenon, known as radiolysis, allows for life to persist in dark, cold environments devoid of sunlight.”

This newly reorganized color view presents a massive surface of Europa. The image scale is 1.6 km per pixel, with the northern part of Europa on the right. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Seti Institute.

Researchers utilized computer simulations to assess the energy output of this process on the icy moons of Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn.

These icy moons are believed to harbor liquid water beneath their thick ice crusts.

Findings indicate that Enceladus is the most promising candidate for supporting life in this manner, followed closely by Mars and Europa.

“This discovery reshapes our understanding of potential habitats for life,” Dr. Atri commented.

“Rather than confining our search to warm, sunlit planets, we can now consider cold, dark regions where water lies beneath the surface and is subjected to cosmic rays.”

“Life might exist in many more locations than previously thought.”

This image captured by Mars Express’s high-resolution stereo camera reveals an overview of Mars, with patches of yellow, orange, blue, and green on a muted gray background, depicting various surface compositions. Image credits: ESA/DLR/FU BERLIN/G. MICHAEL/CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO.

In their research, the authors introduce a new concept termed the Radiolysis Habit Zone.

Unlike the traditional “Goldilocks zone”—the region around a star where planets can sustain liquid water—this new zone emphasizes the potential for subsurface water that can be energized by cosmic radiation.

Given that cosmic rays are ubiquitous throughout the universe, this suggests that numerous additional locations may harbor life.

“These findings offer fresh directions for future space exploration,” remarked Reservers.

“Scientists can target the underground environments of these icy moons and Mars instead of solely searching for life on their surfaces.

“This study paves the way for thrilling new avenues in life exploration across the cosmos, implying that even the coldest and darkest regions may have conditions suitable for life.”

The study will be published in International Journal of Astrobiology.

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Dimitra Atri et al. 2025. Estimating the potential of ionizing radiation-induced radiolysis for microbial metabolism in Earth’s planets and moons with tenuous atmospheres. International Journal of Astrobiology 24:E9; doi:10.1017/s1473550425100025

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Indicates Mars Was Warm and Wet 3.7 Billion Years Ago

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Planetary scientists have identified over 15,000 km of ancient riverbeds in the Noachis Terra region of Mars’ southern highlands, indicating that the planet may have been significantly wetter than previously believed.

This image depicts a flat upper eroded river wavy ridge above Mars, with dunes moving over it. Image credits: NASA/JPL/University of Arizona.

The nature of Mars’ climate during the Noatian-Hesperian transition, which occurred around 3.7 billion years ago, is still being debated. This period saw significant geological and climatic changes, as well as the formation of surface features like valley networks and lakes associated with liquid water.

There are two prevailing theories: the first suggests that a warm and wet environment followed early Mars, allowing liquid water to persist on the surface for an extended time. The second posits that Mars has generally been cold and dry, with flowing water created sporadically by melting ice during brief climate shifts.

In Noachis Terra, climate models predicting “warm and humid” conditions suggest significant precipitation levels.

A recent study led by Open University Ph.D. student Adam Losekoot and his team analyzed the region’s wavy ridges, also known as inverse channels.

“These formations likely resulted from sediments laid down by rivers that solidified, later exposed through the erosion of surrounding materials,” noted the lead researcher.

“Similar ridges have been identified in various Martian terrains.”

“Their presence implies that flowing water once traversed the area, with precipitation being the most probable source,” he added.

The team found that river-wave ridges are widespread throughout Noachis Terra, amounting to over 15,000 km in total length.

While many segments are isolated, some systems extend several hundred kilometers.

“Exploring Mars, particularly less altered regions like Noachis Terra, is thrilling because they have remained relatively unchanged for billions of years,” Losekoot commented.

“It acts as a time capsule that captures fundamental geological processes in ways that are impossible to observe on Earth.”

In their investigation, the researchers utilized data from three orbital devices: the Context Camera (CTX), the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA), and the High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE).

These datasets enabled them to map the locations, lengths, and forms of the ridge systems across various areas.

“Our findings present new evidence indicating that Mars was once a much more dynamic and complex planet than we suppose,” they stated.

“The size and interconnectivity of these ridges suggest that liquid water existed for an extended period, indicating that Noachis Terra experienced warm, wet conditions for a geologically significant time.

“These results challenge the conventional belief that Mars has been predominantly cold and dry, with valleys formed only by sporadic, short-term meltwater from ice sheets.”

The scientists presented their results on July 10th at the National Astronomical Conference of the Royal Astronomical Society 2025 in Durham, England.

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Adam Losekoot et al. The history of the rivers of Noachis Terra, Mars. NAM 2025

Source: www.sci.news

Algae Can Create Bioclastic Habitats on Mars

Posted on July 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Bioplastic vessels in chambers mimicking Martian conditions

Wordsworth et al., Sci. Adv. 11, EADP4985

Future habitats on Mars could support operations utilizing algae grown locally. Initial experiments have demonstrated a functional circulation system simulating Martian conditions in the lab, aiding future explorers in establishing habitats on the Red Planet.

What materials will you take to Mars for this initiative? Robin Wordsworth from Harvard University has created flask-like bioclastic vessels using various algae, small bioreactors, 3D printers, and plant materials. According to Wordsworth, they cultivate algae within these vessels, employ bioreactors to convert the algae into further bioplastic material, and use 3D printing to produce more algae containers.

“The objective is to utilize materials to create habitats sourced from biology. We can develop self-sustaining systems,” he states. Wordsworth and his team have successfully demonstrated the initial phase of this cycle.

They cultivated green algae, Dunaliella tertiolecta, in a vessel made from 1 millimeter thick PLA bioplastic. Each container was placed in a simulated Martian environment, where conditions replicated approximately 0.6% of Earth’s atmospheric pressure, with over 98% carbon dioxide in the air. Over a span of 10 days, researchers observed algae growth and photosynthesis rates comparable to those found in more Earth-like settings.

The concept of 3D-printed bioplastic habitats originated about a decade ago, but new experiments indicate their potential to sustain life, according to Amor Menezes at the University of Florida. “This is thrilling. Our journey to Mars and the duration of stay will last several years, meaning we cannot transport everything,” he explains. “This suggests that bioplastics may feasibly support living under Martian-like conditions, and many essential items during their stay could be bioplastic-based.”

The team’s achievements were the result of several years of testing various container designs and bacterial strains, as explained by team member Rafid Quayum from Harvard University. “Physicists, engineers, and planetary scientists collaborated to bring our minds together and enhance our external environment’s habitability,” he shares.

Looking ahead, the team aims to incorporate more extraterrestrial elements into their experiments, testing materials in a vacuum to simulate atmosphere-free environments found on other planets and moons, as well as launching them into low-Earth orbit spacecraft.

“This presents a genuinely compelling and fundamental research question, essential for enabling human habitation beyond Earth in the future.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Scientists Uncover Mars’ Unexpected Shape and Its Mysterious Origins

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mars may appear spherical, yet it is actually a triaxial ellipsoid. Unlike the other rocky planets in our solar system, which resemble rugby balls, Mars varies in size along all three axes.

This is most apparent in the notable bulge of the Tharsis rise region and the contrasting region known as Sirtis Major.

Astronomer Dr. Michael Efroysky of the US Navy Observatory recently proposed that this peculiar shape may be attributed to the absence of an ancient moon on Mars.

The moon, named Nerio after the Roman goddess of war, who was associated with Mars, influenced the shape of the planet through tidal forces, similar to the oceans here on Earth.

However, once Mars cooled down, its deformed shape became permanently fixed.

Mars is roughly half the size of Earth, with a diameter of 6,790km (4,219 miles) compared to Earth’s 12,750km (7,922 miles) – Credit: Mark Garlic via Getty/Science Photo Library

Nerio’s tidal stress weakened the elevated regions of Mars, facilitating the impact of geological processes such as internal convection, structural shifts, and volcanic activity, all of which contributed to Mars’ asymmetrical shape.

Researchers propose that, in synchronous orbit around Mars, Nerio—being less than a third of Earth’s mass—could easily have formed the planet’s initial triaxial shape. The equatorial bulge would have been even more pronounced if Nerio had existed during the planet’s magma ocean phase.

Currently, Mars lacks such a moon, having only the small moons Deimos and Phobos. At some point, Nerio was either destroyed by another large body or pulled away by gravitational forces.

This article answers the question posed by Otto Sykes in an email: “Why does Mars have such a strange shape?”

Please email us to submit your questions at Question@sciencefocus.com or message us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram Page (don’t forget to include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Patient Rover Could Uncover Secrets of Newly Discovered Mars Volcano

Posted on June 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The questionable volcano (highlighted) is located near the prominent Jezero crater on Mars

NASA/JPL/MSSS/JHUAPL/ESA/DLR/FU BERLIN/ASTER COWART

Recent observations suggest the existence of a volcanic formation at the edge of Mars’ Jezero Crater, currently under investigation by NASA’s rover. This rover might already be collecting samples from materials expelled during an ancient volcanic eruption.

Perseverance, which landed in Jezero Crater in 2021, is methodically moving toward the western edge, tracing an ancient river that is believed to have flowed between 300 million and 4 billion years ago.

The rover is gathering samples meant to be returned to Earth as part of the Mars Sample Return mission planned for the 2030s. However, this endeavor faces potential cuts proposed by the Trump administration affecting NASA’s funding.

Some of the materials in the samples were thought to be volcanic, showcasing characteristics of lava flow. Recently, James Ray from Georgia Tech in Atlanta and his team have identified a possible volcanic structure at Jezero Mons—a dormant volcano situated on the southeastern edge of Jezero.

High-resolution images from Martian orbiters have revealed fine-grained materials in the vicinity, possibly indicating ash from the volcano. The dimensions and shape of Jezero Mons—21 km wide and 2 km high—parallel those of similar volcanoes on Earth.

“The evidence for igneous volcanoes is most consistent with our observations,” states Ray, noting that magma may have originated from beneath the surface. “This is the strongest case we can make without physically visiting the site.”

By analyzing the craters near the volcano, Ray and his colleagues estimate that Jezero Mons may have last erupted around a billion years ago.

This finding suggests that the rover might have collected volcanic samples. If they can be returned to Earth, scientists would be able to accurately date volcanic activity on another planet for the first time.

“Knowing when that volcano was active is incredibly exciting,” exclaimed Briony Hogan from Purdue University in Indiana, a member of the rover’s science team. This information could significantly enhance our understanding of “how the interiors of planets evolve over time,” she adds.

Ideally, Ray mentions that he hopes to direct Perseverance to the volcano itself, but acknowledges this may not be feasible. “There are really fascinating ancient rocks to the west of the crater, so they’re likely driving in the opposite direction,” he explains. “I can’t blame them.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Is Terraforming Mars a Path to Habitability?

Posted on June 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In their recent study, planetary scientist Nina Lanza and her team at the Los Alamos National Laboratory explored the necessary steps to transform Mars’ surface into a more Earthlike environment, and what actions are required now if we aspire to make the Red Planet capable of sustaining human life in the future.

Impressions of terraformed Mars artists. Image credits: Daein Ballard/CC by-sa 3.0.

“Believe it or not, since 1991, there has been no comprehensive examination of Mars’ viability for terraforming,” stated Dr. Lanza.

“Since that time, we have made remarkable progress in Mars science, geoengineering, launch capabilities, and bioscience.”

Terraforming Mars involves warming its atmosphere and enabling engineered microorganisms to generate oxygen through photosynthesis.

“We need to confront the actual requirements, costs, and potential risks before determining whether the effort to warm Mars is worthwhile, as opposed to the alternative of preserving it as a pristine wilderness,” the researchers noted.

The research paper discusses current understanding of Mars’ water, carbon dioxide, soil composition, and potential strategies to raise Mars’ surface temperature, enhance atmospheric pressure, and increase oxygen levels.

Innovative methods have been developed that could elevate Mars’ average global temperature by several tens of degrees.

Research priorities should focus on understanding the fundamental physical, chemical, and biological limitations that will influence future decisions regarding Mars. This research could drive advancements in Mars exploration, biological sciences, and atmospheric engineering.

“This work could ultimately aid in maintaining the ‘Oasis Earth’,” the scientist mentioned.

“Technologies developed for Mars habitation, such as drought-resistant crops, efficient soil enhancements, and advanced ecosystem modeling, could also benefit our home planet.”

“Terraforming research on Mars serves as a crucial testbed for planetary science, probing theoretical frameworks and revealing knowledge gaps.”

“Ongoing research promises significant scientific breakthroughs, regardless of whether large-scale terraforming takes place.”

“Until that study is completed, we cannot ascertain what is physically or biologically feasible.”

“If humanity can learn to terraform a planet like Mars, it may pave the way for future exploration beyond our solar system.”

The team’s paper was published in the journal Natural Astronomy on May 13th.

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ea debenedictis et al. 2025. A case study of terraforming on Mars. Nut Athlon 9, 634-639; doi:10.1038/s41550-025-02548-0

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Suggests Mars’ Gradient Stripes are Dry

Posted on May 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Slope stripes are prominent dark markings on Martian slopes that naturally form and can fade over decades. Some planetary scientists interpreted these features as evidence of liquid flows, raising the possibility of a currently habitable environment on Mars. However, recent research by Brown and Bern Universities offers alternative explanations, focusing on drying processes associated with wind and dust activities.

This image captures the impact crater in the Sirenum Fossa region of Mars, taken by NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter on March 30, 2015. The crater is about 3,300 feet (1 km) wide, displaying sharp rims and well-preserved features, indicating a relatively recent origin. The steep inner slope is carved into the gully and exhibits a recurring slope system on equator-facing slopes. Image credits: NASA/JPL/University of Arizona/Alfred McEwen.

“A significant focus of contemporary Mars research is understanding active processes on the planet, including the potential presence of liquid water on its surface,” states Dr. Admos Valantinus, a postdoctoral researcher at Brown University.

“In our study, we examined these features but found no evidence of water. Our model supports the idea of a dry formation process.”

The unusual stripes were first identified from images sent back by NASA’s Viking mission in the 1970s.

These stripes typically appear darker than the surrounding terrain, stretching across sloped regions that can extend several hundred meters.

While some stripes endure for years or decades, others appear and disappear more rapidly.

The phenomenon known as recurring slope features (RSLs) tends to manifest in the same locations during Mars’ warmest periods.

The origins of these stripes have fueled much debate among planetary scientists.

Seeking new insights, Dr. Valantinus and his colleague Dr. Valentin Bickel employed machine learning algorithms to catalog as many slope streaks as possible.

After training the algorithm on confirmed sightings of slope streaks, it was used to analyze over 86,000 high-resolution satellite images.

The outcome was the first comprehensive global map of slope streaks on Mars, featuring over 500,000 individual streaks.

“With this global map, we can compare it against a database of various factors such as temperature, wind speed, moisture, and rock slide activity,” said Dr. Bickel.

“This enables us to search for correlations across a vast number of cases to better comprehend the conditions under which these features form.”

This extensive analysis indicated that slope stripes and RSLs are generally not linked to conditions that would suggest the presence of liquid or frost, such as specific gradient directions, significant surface temperature fluctuations, or high humidity levels.

Instead, the authors posited that both features are likely to form in areas with moderate wind speeds and dust deposition, consistent with arid origins.

Researchers concluded that these stripes likely arise when fine layers of dust suddenly slide down steep slopes.

Variability in triggering factors was noted. Slope stripes are observed more frequently near recent impact craters where shock waves can disturb loose surface dust, while RSLs tend to be more prevalent in areas affected by dust devils and rockfalls.

Collectively, these findings raise new questions about the viability of slope stripes and RSLs as indicators of habitable environments.

This research holds significant implications for future Mars exploration efforts.

While a habitable environment may seem like an appealing exploration target, NASA aims to be cautious in this regard.

Earthly microorganisms potentially present on spacecraft could contaminate Mars’ habitable zones, complicating the search for extraterrestrial life.

This study suggests that the risk of contamination at slope streak locations is relatively low.

“This demonstrates the advantage of a big data approach,” noted Dr. Valantinas.

“It helps eliminate certain hypotheses from consideration before launching a spacecraft for exploration.”

The results were published on May 19, 2025, in Nature Communications.

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VT Bickel & A. Valantinas. 2025. The streaks on the slopes of Mars are dry. Nature Communications 16, 4315; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-59395-w

Source: www.sci.news

Patience Unveils the Aurora at Visible Wavelengths on Mars

Posted on May 20, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mars exhibits various aurora processes despite its thin atmosphere and absence of global magnetic fields. Previously, all aurora observations have been conducted in ultraviolet wavelengths from orbit. In a recent study, planetary scientists reported the observation of a green visible wavelength aurora, generated from the atomic oxygen line at 557.7 nanometers (nm), detected by NASA’s Perseverance rover using the Supercam and Mastcam-Z instruments.

The first visible image of the green aurora on Mars (left) taken by the NASA Perseverance rover’s Mastcam-Z instrument. On the right is a comparison image of the night sky on Mars without aurora, featuring the Moon Deimos on Mars. The moonlit Mars night sky, primarily illuminated by the larger moon Phobos (outside the frame), has a reddish-brown tint due to atmospheric dust. Consequently, the addition of green aurora light results in a green-yellow tone in the left image. Image credits: NASA/JPL-CALTECH/ASU/MSSS/SSI.

On Earth, auroras occur when solar particles interact with the magnetic field, colliding with atmospheric gases at the poles and emitting light.

Green, the most frequently observed color, results from excited oxygen atoms emitting light at a wavelength of 557.7 nm.

Researchers have theorized for years that green auroras could also manifest on Mars, but noted they would likely be more diffuse and harder to capture than those on Earth.

Due to the absence of a global magnetic field, Mars experiences a distinct type of aurora compared to Earth.

One such type is the Solar Energy Particle (SEP) Aurorae, identified by NASA’s Maven mission in 2014.

These auroras occur when high-energy particles from the sun impact the Martian atmosphere, leading to a luminous display in the night sky.

“Our findings open up new avenues for aurora research and affirm that future astronauts on Mars could witness these phenomena,” stated Dr. Ellis Knutsen, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Oslo.

On March 15, 2024, the Sun’s solar flare production and the accompanying coronal mass ejection prompted auroras across the solar system, including Mars, with Perseverance capturing them for the first time from another planet’s surface.

Dr. Knutsen and his team utilized data from SEP instruments on NASA’s Maven spacecraft and ESA’s Mars Express spacecraft to verify the detection.

“They’re actively tracking this,” remarked Dr. Shannon Curry, a researcher at Maven and at the Institute of Atmospheric Astronomy at the University of Colorado, Boulder.

“We are thrilled to rapidly advance this observation and look forward to revealing what astronauts might see there.”

By correlating Perseverance’s observations with data from Maven’s SEP instrument, researchers can better analyze the detected 557.7 nm radiation from solar energy particles.

This emission line is identical to the green aurora on Earth, implying that future Mars astronauts may witness this type of aurora.

“The visibility of auroras from Perseverance enables new methods to study these phenomena, complementing orbital observations of Mars,” noted Dr. Katie Stack Morgan, the project scientist for Perseverance at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

“A deeper understanding of auroras and the conditions on Mars that facilitate their formation is crucial for preparing to send human explorers there safely.”

The team’s study was published in the journal Advances in Science.

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Elise W. Knutsen et al. 2025. Detection of the visible wavelength aurora on Mars. Advances in Science 11 (20); doi:10.1126/sciadv.ads1563

Source: www.sci.news

We Might Finally Understand What Happened to Mars’ Missing Water

Posted on May 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mars once boasted a sprawling ocean across its surface. Over time, the magnetic field diminished, the atmosphere thinned, and the water vanished. Yet, the total isn’t accounted for. This water must have disappeared somewhere as the red planet transitioned from a watery haven to the dusty landscape we recognize today. So, what happened to it?

A recent study published in National Science Review by researchers from China, Australia, and Italy has uncovered potential vast reservoirs of water located deep beneath the planet’s surface, providing answers about its fate. Unlike the icy reservoirs found elsewhere on Mars, this water is believed to remain in liquid form, making it a promising candidate in the search for extraterrestrial life.

Around 4 billion years ago, liquid water covered much of Mars’s surface. If evenly distributed, this water would have created a global ocean approximately 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) deep, comparable to the volume of the Indian Ocean on Earth today.

While exact figures are still under debate, this estimation highlights a significant discrepancy.

“Estimated losses of liquid water due to atmospheric escape and crust hydration are predicted to be between 10-200 meters (33-656 feet) and 550 meters (1,800 feet) respectively,” stated Waijia Sun, a geophysics professor at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and lead author of the study, as reported by BBC Science Focus.

“Current estimates suggest a total of 20-40 meters (66-131 feet) of water exists in Mars’s atmosphere and as ice in polar or subsurface deposits.”

The “missing water” on Mars, estimated at a range between 710 and 920 meters (2,330 and 3,020 feet), remains unaccounted for, according to Sun and colleagues.

Marsquakes and Meteorites

With NASA’s InSight lander landing on Mars on November 26, 2018, a new perspective of the planet’s interior became available. Equipped with a dome housing a seismometer, it measures seismic activity similar to how earthquakes are monitored on Earth, dubbed “pulsing” by NASA.

The research team utilized measurements from two meteor impacts and seismic waves generated by a “Marsquake.” BBC Science Focus co-author Professor Hrvoje Tkalčić compared this technique to medical ultrasound, allowing glimpses into the Martian interior.

“In essence, earthquake waves generated from distant events travel through the Earth’s crust beneath the seismometer,” explained Tkalčić. “By analyzing their reverberations, we can deduce the thickness of these layers and the depth of boundaries.”

Scientists set up solar arrays for NASA’s InSight Lander in 2015 – Photo Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Lockheed Martin

Seismic waves travel faster through rock that contains water. By measuring the velocity of waves resulting from impacts or quakes, scientists can investigate the presence of deep underground water without the need for excavation.

This innovative method, known as the “receiver function,” enabled the team to identify layers approximately 5.4-8 km (3.4-5 miles) below the Martian surface where seismic waves slow down, indicating water’s presence.

At these depths, temperatures are sufficient for liquid water to exist. Researchers estimate that the water present ranges between 520-780 meters (1,700-2,560 feet) beneath the surface.

Could There Be Life on Mars?

If substantial aquifers lie below the Martian surface, it could be an ideal location to search for alien life. Water is a crucial element for life on Earth, sustaining even deep subterranean microorganisms like bacteria and archaea, which constitute around 15% of Earth’s total biomass.

While finding complex life forms is unlikely at such depths on Mars, microbial life remains a distinct possibility.

“The availability of liquid water is viewed as a key factor in our search for life, as it is essential for existence,” noted Tkalčić. “Consequently, pinpointing locations with liquid water on Mars is vital for identifying potential life.”

Additionally, if humanity establishes a presence on Mars, water becomes a critical resource. Excavating kilometers below the surface presents significant engineering challenges, but such obstacles are to be expected in pioneering a human settlement on another planet.

However, before rushing to buy tickets to Mars, Sun and Tkalčić caution that the aquifer’s existence is not yet confirmed. They emphasize the necessity for additional data before reaching any conclusions.

Liquid water is the most plausible explanation supported by current data, but other viable explanations for the observed seismic waves, such as layers of sediment, exist.

Professor Hrvoje Tkalčić oversees seismology and mathematics in geophysics and heads the Warramunga Seismic & Infrasound Facility at the Australian National University – Photo credit: Jamie Kidston/ANU

On Earth, seismic measurements are taken from numerous seismometers worldwide that cross-validate data points. The situation is different on Mars.

“We must remember that we are limited to data from a single seismometer on a faraway planet. It’s a challenging observational environment, and we are maximizing the quality and quantity of our data,” Tkalčić added.

Researchers aspire that upcoming Mars missions equipped with more seismometers will facilitate more comprehensive studies across the planet. Eventually, we may even analyze the crust for direct chemical evidence of water, and potentially signs of life.

For now, this research offers a hopeful glimpse into what future missions may reveal. Sun remarked: “These findings shed light on the evolution of Mars’s water cycle and its potential habitability, laying a solid groundwork for future inquiries into Martian life and the planet’s climatic history.”

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About Our Experts

Weijia Sun is a professor of geophysics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, recognized for his work in Earth and Planetary Physics. His research has appeared in prominent journals such as Nature, Geophysical Research Letters, and Journal of Geophysical Research.

Hrvoje Tkalčić heads the Geophysics Department and directs the Warramunga Seismic & Infrasound Facility at the Australian National University. His research focuses on observational seismology, particularly the Earth’s deep structure and dynamics, appearing in journals like Science, Geophysical Research Letters, and Journal of Geophysical Research.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Curiosity Rover Uncovers Carbonate Minerals on Early Mars, Revealing the Carbon Cycle in Action

Posted on April 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

NASA’s curiosity rover discovered evidence of the ancient Mars carbon cycle, bringing scientists closer to answers on whether the planet can support life.

Curiosity watches the track retreat in the distance on April 30, 2023 at a site called Ubajara. This site is where Rover discovered the Siderate. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS.

Planetary researchers have long believed that Mars once had a thick carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere and liquid water on the surface of the planet.

That carbon dioxide and water should have reacted with Mars rocks to produce carbonate minerals.

However, to date, rover missions and near-infrared spectroscopy analysis from Mars orbit satellites have not discovered the amount of carbonate on the Earth’s surface predicted by this theory.

“We’ve seen a lot of experience in the world,” said Dr. Benjamin Tutoro, a researcher at the University of Calgary.

“The planet is habitable and shows that the model of habitability is correct.”

Using data collected by curiosity, Dr. Tutoro and his colleagues analyzed the composition of the 89 m stratigraphic section of Gail Crater, which once contained an ancient lake.

They identified high concentrations of iron carbonate minerals called siderelites in layers rich in magnesium sulfate, ranging from about 5% to over 10% by weight.

This was unexpected as orbital measurements had not detected carbonates in these layers.

Given its source and chemistry, the researchers speculate that the Seidelians, formed by the water rock reaction and evaporation, indicate that carbon dioxide has been chemically isolated from the Martian atmosphere to sedimentary rocks.

If the mineral composition of these sulfate layers represents a globally sulfate-rich region, these deposits contain large carbon reservoirs that were previously unrecognised.

The carbonate is partially destroyed by a later process, indicating that some of the carbon dioxide was later returned to the atmosphere, creating a carbon cycle.

“The discovery of abundant siderelites in Gale Crater represents both an astonishing and important breakthrough in understanding Mars’ geological and atmospheric evolution,” Dr. Tutoro said.

Dr. Thomas Bristow, a researcher at NASA’s Ames Research Center, added:

“A mere centimeters below gives us a good idea of minerals that were formed on or near the surface about 3.5 billion years ago.”

Survey results It will be displayed in the journal Science.

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Benjamin M. Tsutoro et al. 2025. Carbonates identified by the curiosity rover show the carbon cycle operating on ancient Mars. Science 388 (6744): 292-297; doi: 10.1126/science.ado9966

Source: www.sci.news