The fascination with Mars and its surroundings has existed since the beginning of time. Mars, often recognized by its distinctive red hue even to the naked eye, has held various interpretations throughout history—as a deity, a habitat for extraterrestrial life, and a potential threat from invaders. Extensive scientific research spanning decades has indicated the presence of water on Mars’ surface millions of years ago, hinting at the possibility of past life. However, definitive evidence of life remains elusive. Nonetheless, scientific consensus affirms that Mars was once a planet with substantial water.
A recent evidence of running water has been found by NASA’s rover, Perseverance, that has been carrying out important observations while roaming on the Martian surface.
A photo was released earlier this month by NASA which was captured by Persevarance’s Mastcam-Z camera. The image shows a curious collection of rocks and pebbles strewn around in Mars’ Jezero Crater.
It would be fair to question the exact location? ‘Castell Henllys’ in the Jezero Crater. According to NASA, the rocks and pebbles captured in the photo were brought in by ‘strong flood waters billions of years ago’.
Perseverance’s crucial goals include Astrobiology, seeking definitive proof of extraterrestrial life, marking a significant objective in the mission’s pursuits.
Life on Mars might not resemble popular media’s aliens, yet confirming microorganisms or their fossils would still mark a groundbreaking discovery.
Why is water an important discovery on other planets?
On Earth, life emerged from a barren phase, starting as microorganisms in water, evolving into complex aquatic organisms, followed by land-based animals and plants.
Consequently, the presence of water significantly increases the likelihood of life formation on a planet. Besides Mars, Europa, Jupiter’s moon, stands as a promising candidate for life exploration. Despite its icy surface, scientists hypothesize a vast sub-surface ocean on Europa, potentially fostering life.