Researchers propose that water emerges during planet formation, contradicting previous 'accidental' asteroid collision theory. The study found water on Mars for the first 90 million years of existence, suggesting it was a bioproduct of the planet's formation process.
Researchers discovered diverse microbes in Chile's Atacama Desert clay layers, which could indicate the presence of microorganisms on Mars. The study provides a guide for searching for life on the red planet, informing where to look and which instruments to use.
Analysis of a Martian meteorite suggests water was present on ancient Mars around 4.4 billion years ago, raising questions about the origin of water on Earth and potential for life beyond. The finding could impact theories on planetary formation and exploration.
Researchers developed artificial soil mixtures that mimic materials found on Mars, evaluating their fertility and potential for plant growth. The study found that Martian soils may be challenging to use due to textures and nutrient availability, but also identified potential solutions using Earth-based agricultural science.
Researchers have developed a simple manufacturing technology using chitin, a ubiquitous organic polymer, to build tools and shelters on Mars. This approach enables the rapid manufacturing of objects ranging from basic tools to rigid shelters, which could support humans in a Martian environment.
Researchers at Cornell University found that acidic fluids may have destroyed biological evidence hidden within Mars' iron-rich clays, making it difficult to search for life on the red planet. The study's lead author suggests that searching for organic compounds on Mars is a challenging task due to the degradation of biological material.
Researchers detected a slight tilt in the seismometer's signal during solar eclipses, likely due to ground cooling and deformation. This effect could be used to map Phobos' orbit with increased precision, important for future missions to the Martian moon.
The NASA JPL team is using deep learning to develop software for future Mars rovers, which will enable them to travel farther and explore more of the planet. The team has been training machine learning models on the Maverick2 supercomputer and developing novel capabilities such as Drive-By Science and Energy-Optimal Autonomous Navigation.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that precipitation must have been between 13-520 feet to fill ancient lake beds and river valleys on Mars. This study helps scientists understand the planet's climate and provides a crucial reference for future Mars missions.
Researchers at the University of Bern have developed a new mass spectrometer, ORIGIN, capable of detecting and identifying the smallest amounts of extraterrestrial life traces. The instrument outperforms previous space instruments in terms of measurement sensitivity.
Researchers from Rice University have made the first direct measurements of three subsurface boundaries from Mars' crust to its core using NASA's InSight Lander data. The study provides insights into Mars' early history, planetary formation, and the planet's development from a chemical and thermal perspective.
New research published in Nature Geoscience reveals that early Mars was covered in ice sheets, not flowing rivers. The study analyzed over 10,000 Martian valleys and found striking similarities with subglacial channels in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
The Oak Ridge National Laboratory's production of ORNL-produced plutonium-238 enables the Perseverance rover to power its journey across Mars. The lab has been consistently increasing its Pu-238 production capabilities, aiming to produce 1.5 kilograms per year by 2026.
Astrophysicist Dimitra Atri's study suggests the presence of a life-supporting environment on ancient Mars due to traces of water and radiation-driven chemical reactions. The ExoMars mission may detect microbial life in this subsurface environment, providing valuable insights into the planet's habitability.
The USGS has created precise maps of the Mars 2020 landing site in Jezero crater, which will help the Perseverance rover steer itself to a safe landing. These high-resolution maps are essential for unlocking the mysteries of the red planet's past and searching for evidence of past life.
A veteran NAU planetary scientist collaborates with UAE and US teams to develop Emirates Mars Infrared Spectrometer (EMIRS), providing a unique view of Martian atmosphere. The Emirates Mars Mission 'Hope' orbiter arrives at Mars in February 2021, collecting images and data for two years.
Researchers at Kyushu University analyzed data from NASA's InSight lander to determine the sources of different types and frequencies of Martian microtremors. The study found that low-frequency P-waves were related to changes in wind and solar irradiation, while higher-frequency ambient noises were dominated by lander vibration.
The CODEX instrument uses ablation lasers and mass spectrometry to determine rock ages with precision ±20-80 million years, significantly more accurate than current methods. The miniaturized version will enable faster data acquisition on lander missions to the Moon or Mars.
New research from Washington University in St. Louis finds that electrostatic discharge during Martian dust storms generates highly reactive chlorine compounds, driving the surface-to-atmosphere cycle of chlorine. The ongoing chlorine cycle may impact the detection of biomarkers on Mars.
A new study found that meteorite crashes can create amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, by simulating ocean impact reactions. The discovery supports extraterrestrial delivery as a possible origin of life's essential molecules on Earth and Mars.
Scientists have captured new images of Phobos using NASA's 2001 Mars Odyssey orbiter, providing insight into the moon's surface temperature variations and composition. The images suggest a relatively uniform surface made of fine-grained materials, mostly basaltic in origin.
The MAVEN spacecraft has created a map of electric current systems in Mars' atmosphere, revealing a crucial role in atmospheric loss. The currents, generated by solar wind interaction, transform energy into magnetic and electric fields that accelerate charged particles into space.
Nuclear fission reactors are being considered as top candidates to generate electricity in space due to their reliability and capacity. The technology has been tested and could provide a power source for several years, making it an attractive option for lunar and Martian settlements.
Scientists studying Martian rocks find evidence of long-lived lakes, organic compounds, and a cold ancient environment. The discovery suggests that Mars' climate may have changed over time, with factors like volcanic activity and changes in the planet's obliquity contributing to these shifts.
Researchers found that free flowing mud under Martian conditions behaves differently from on Earth due to rapid freezing and icy crust formation. The experimental mud flows formed similar shapes to 'pahoehoe' lava, explaining the formation of lava-like flow morphologies on Mars.
A team of researchers recreated Martian conditions in a low-pressure chamber, observing the flow of mud that behaves similarly to pahoehoe lava flows on Earth. The study confirms sedimentary volcanism is possible on Mars, prompting a reevaluation of geological structures previously attributed to lava flows.
Scientists have measured the velocity of seismic waves in iron-sulfur alloys thought to comprise Mars' core, providing crucial information about the planet's internal structure. This study simulates the Martian core's composition and origin, helping researchers compare observations with Martian space probes.
A Southwest Research Institute scientist modeled Mars' atmosphere to determine that salty pockets of water on the Red Planet are unlikely to be habitable by Earth-based life. The study found stable brines could form seasonally, but temperatures are too low to support life.
Researchers from UBC have discovered a new timeline for the ancient magnetic field on Mars, with evidence of dynamo activity at 4.5 billion and 3.7 billion years ago. The findings suggest that the Martian dynamo was active earlier than previously thought, providing insights into the planet's thermal history and evolution.
Scientists have detected 4-billion-year-old nitrogen-bearing organic compounds in a Martian meteorite, suggesting early Mars may have been habitable and favourable for life to start. The discovery provides strong evidence that evidence for early life can be preserved and detected today.
Researchers create tiny aircraft made from 'nanocardboard' that can levitate and carry payloads ten times heavier than themselves in the Martian atmosphere. The design uses a temperature differential to generate thrust, enabling the flyers to potentially serve as atmospheric probes on Mars, Pluto, and other planets.
Researchers discovered a community of bacteria as dense as the human gut living in tiny clay-filled cracks in solid rock millions of years old. The bacteria's presence suggests that life can thrive in conditions similar to those on Mars, where nutrient availability may be limited.
Researchers have developed a biohybrid system that uses bacteria on nanowires to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic building blocks. The system has achieved a record efficiency of 3.6% in converting solar energy into carbon bonds, making it comparable to sugar cane's 4-5% efficiency.
Researchers analyzed Martian meteorites to reconstruct Mars' chaotic history and find that the planet likely received water from at least two distinct sources. The findings suggest Mars never had an ocean of magma completely encompassing the planet, contradicting previous theories.
Astrobiologists Dirk Schulze-Makuch and Jacob Heinz found thiophene molecules on Mars consistent with biological origins. Non-biological processes, such as meteor impacts or thermochemical sulfate reduction, also remain possible explanations.
A new study reveals that a site in southern Germany's Nordlinger Ries crater may provide insights into Mars' ancient atmosphere. The team used nitrogen isotope ratios to estimate the pH of ancient waters, suggesting high levels of carbon dioxide could have made liquid water possible on the red planet.
The SEIS seismometer has measured over 174 probable 'Mars quakes', providing valuable data on the planet's composition. The analysis indicates a layer of rock 10 kilometres thick, with waves spreading at relatively slow speeds, suggesting fissured or chemically altered rock.
The InSight lander has detected gravity waves, surface swirling dust devils and the steady rumble of infrasound on Mars. The team also found daily pressure and temperature fluctuations stronger than on Earth, and convective vortices known as dust devils.
Researchers analyzed Marsquakes from InSight mission, finding moderate seismic activity intermediate between Earth and the Moon. The data revealed geological layers within the planet and identified areas of high geological activity, guiding future missions searching for potential life.
Scientists have discovered that Mars' magnetic field is ten times stronger than previously estimated, with fluctuations revealing clues about the planet's upper atmosphere. The findings provide valuable insights into Mars' interior structure and how it formed.
The NASA InSight lander has recorded over 450 marsquakes on Mars, providing insights into the planet's internal structure and tectonic activity. The data reveals a stronger attenuation in the upper mantle compared to the lower mantle, indicating a more fractured crust.
Scientists Takashi Yoshizaki and Bill McDonough developed a new compositional model for Mars, predicting the depth to its core-mantle boundary at around 1,800 km. The model suggests moderate amounts of sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen in Mars' core, with the core accounting for only about one-sixth of the planet's mass.
Scientists modeled early impact events on Mars, revealing a heterogeneous mantle and challenging previous estimates of the planet's formation time. The new research provides insight into the Red Planet's evolution and composition.
A new study suggests that Mars' ancient waters were characterized by high salinity and a neutral pH, creating an environment potentially suitable for microbial life. The research found evidence of hyposaline lakes on early Mars, which could have supported life forms similar to those found on Earth.
Scientists studied Martian atmospheric water vapor using ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter data, finding seasonal changes were the dominant regulator. The study suggests that warm seasons can lead to increased water loss into space, impacting Mars' continued desiccation.
Joanna Clark is developing a technique to study past Martian climate conditions using silica minerals. She plans to create silica minerals in the laboratory and analyze them for oxygen isotopes.
Researchers at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University present findings that a type of Martian aurora is the most common on the Red Planet, offering insights into water loss and climate change. The study uses data from NASA's MAVEN spacecraft to track hydrogen escape and understand how Mars' atmosphere has changed over time.
A new study using MAVEN data reveals that the proton aurora on Mars occurs more than 14% of dayside observations, increasing to over 80% during southern summer. This correlation suggests that changes in solar activity and Martian atmospheric conditions lead to increased water loss.
Researchers used MAVEN data to map global circulation of Mars' upper atmosphere, providing insights into the planet's climate stability and atmospheric waves. The study reveals simpler circulation patterns than Earth's, with stable winds over Martian seasons.
Researchers successfully collect wind data on Mars, revealing circulation patterns that bear the signature of mountains and valleys hundreds of kilometers below. The study's findings provide valuable insights into Martian climate and potentially inform studies on Earth's upper atmosphere.
A study suggests that ancient rock structures on Earth may be mistaken for fossils, which could aid future Mars missions. Research by University of Edinburgh scientist Sean McMahon created synthetic iron-rich formations in the lab, mimicking those found on Mars.
Véronique Dehant's research aims to understand Mars' core, which is essential for determining the planet's habitability and potential for life. The ExoMars mission will collect Martian radio science data and analyze the planet's rotation to gain insights into its innards.
Kathy Benison, a WVU geologist, has been chosen as part of the Return Sample Selection Participating Scientist team for NASA's Mars 2020 expedition. She will help select promising rocks and sediments for the rover to cache or study on Mars.
Researchers at University College London analysed Martian landslide structures to understand their formation. The study found that high-speed rock particles and vibrations could create the unique ridges and furrows, contradicting the idea of icy substrates.
A team of scientists, including Texas A&M University researcher Marion Nachon, found that Mars' Gale Crater lake underwent drying episodes, potentially linked to the planet's global drying. The study reveals signs of liquid water and salt ponds similar to those on Earth, particularly in South America's Altiplano region.
Researchers successfully grew ten crops in Mars and Moon soil simulant, including garden cress, tomato, and radish. The study found that nine out of ten crops produced edible parts, with the exception of spinach.
A study published in New Space: The Journal of Space Entrepreneurship and Innovation models population growth, caloric needs, land use, and potential food sources to determine Mars' food self-sufficiency. A diet composed of plants, insects, and cellular agriculture can meet human nutritional requirements.
A study in the Atacama Desert found that microbial life can be transported across the hyperarid environment using wind-driven dust particles. This suggests that potential microbial life on Mars may spread similarly, with implications for future research and exploration.
A new study suggests that ancient Mars experienced warm periods with flowing water, followed by cold periods where water froze. This finding is significant as it increases the chances of simple life developing on Mars around the same time as it did on Earth.
Researchers at Newcastle University have found that wind erosion is unlikely to be the primary cause of methane gas release on Mars. The team used high-resolution imagery and data to rule out wind erosion as a viable mechanism for producing detectable levels of methane in the Martian atmosphere.