Scientists have identified previously unknown underground structures on Mars that could potentially have harbored or formerly harbored alien life. The research team’s work was published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.
Experts believe that if life ever emerged on the Red Planet, traces of it should be sought not on the surface, but in caves. Such shelters provide protection from dust storms, sudden temperature changes, and the intense radiation that dominates the open Martian plains.
Some of the most promising sites include eight suspected cave formations—so-called “light windows.” These structures were discovered by Chenyu Ding of Shenzhen University (China) and his colleagues.
The study’s authors claim that karst cavities—a type of cave never before found on Mars—have been discovered for the first time. On Earth, such caves form when water dissolves rocks such as limestone or gypsum. The water gradually erodes the materials, creating large voids and cracks that eventually develop into cave systems.
The researchers believe that water could have existed on Mars in ancient times, capable of corroding carbonate and sulfate rocks, creating the karst formations discovered today. These karst formations were discovered thanks to data from Mars orbiters. These sheltered structures, unaffected by storms, frost, and radiation, are considered the most promising locations for searching for traces of Martian life.
Even if no living organisms are found in these caves, they could become natural shelters for future astronauts exploring Mars.
As a reminder, scientists have recorded the first plasma emission on another planet.
To be continued…
Only registered users can leave comments