In the boundless silences of Mars, the rover Curiosity made an extraordinary discovery: in the Gale crater, which once formed the bottom of a lake, they are stay found traces of manganese oxide, a mineral typical of terrestrial lakes. This data not only amazes us, but pushes us to reflect on the ancient Martian atmosphere and its potential habitable conditions.
What does manganese oxide tell us about Mars?
Manganese oxidewhich on Earth is formed predominantly through biological processes facilitated by oxygen and microbes, has been found in significant quantities. Patrick Gasdathe head of the research, explains that the presence of life on Mars has not yet been proven and it remains a mystery to understand how oxygen could be produced and accumulated in the ancient ones eras. “The Gale Lake environment gives us a window into a environment that it may have been habitable,” adds Nina Lanza, co-author of the study. The conditions of the Martian lake are surprisingly reminiscent of those of current lakes on Earth.
The method of analysis used by Curiosity it is based on a laser capable of vaporizing rocks to analyze their chemical composition. The data collected suggests that the mineral deposits do they formed probably long the shores of the lake in an oxygen-rich atmosphere. This discovery fuels hopes of finding traces of ancient Martian life, so long as Similar processes on Earth are often linked to biological activity.
Furthermore, the Rover Perseverance is exploring another environment that was once rich in water, a dried-up river delta, where they might further clues of a past life emerge. Research continues, fueling debate and curiosity about our knowledge of space and life outside of it Earth.
With each new discovery, doors open to new theories and potential revolutions scientific. And you, you think Mars could Really host life forms? Share your opinion in the comments!
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