In the rocks of the Red Planet, the NASA Perseverance rover has discovered unusual features that indicate the possible existence of life in the distant past. A study on this has already been published in the journal Nature.
According to Deputy Administrator of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate Nicky Fox, such a discovery is “the closest we’ve come to finding ancient life on Mars.” Also, Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy noted that such a discovery could be “the clearest sign of life ever found on Mars.” But officials note that more research is needed.
The Perseverance rover explored the Bright Angel formation – rocky outcrops in the ancient river valley of Neretva Vallis. It was carved out by water that burst into the Jezero crater. It was here that the rover’s instruments discovered that the formation’s sedimentary rocks consist of clay and silt, which on Earth are the custodians of past microbial life. They are also rich in organic carbon, sulfur, oxidized iron, and phosphorus.
These silt rocks have markings that scientists call “leopard spots” and “poppy seeds.” The study’s lead author, Joel Hurowitz, notes that microbes “consume organic matter and react with the silt, and these minerals become a byproduct of this reaction.”
Thanks to the analysis, it becomes clear that the Bright Angel formation contains textures, mineral and chemical characteristics, as well as organic traces that can be considered “potential biosignatures.” These traces are most likely the remains of life, and not life itself.
Recall that scientists have confirmed the existence of a fifth ocean on Earth.
To be continued…
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