NASA has discovered evidence of a carbon cycle on Mars that suggests the presence of life, but it remains to be seen whether the Red Planet ever supported life. The discovery was made by analyzing soil samples from NASA’s Curiosity rover, which found iron carbonate in higher quantities than previously identified.
The analysis suggests that ancient oceans on Mars reacted with atmospheric CO2 and sediments to produce siderite, a form of carbon-based deposit. This reaction, known as a carbon cycle, is similar to the one that occurs on Earth. The presence of this cycle on Mars may have contributed to its habitability in the past.
However, scientists say that an “imbalanced” carbon cycle is likely responsible for Mars becoming uninhabitable today. Without plate tectonics, which are essential for Earth’s system, Mars lacks a mechanism to trigger eruptions that would send CO2 back into the atmosphere.
The discovery of iron carbonate on Mars is significant because it suggests that life may have existed on the planet in the past. However, the presence of this cycle does not guarantee the existence of life today. Further research is needed to determine whether Mars can support life and what the implications are for future exploration.
Source: University of Calgary
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/nasa-digs-up-new-clue-in-search-for-life-on-mars/a-72262062