NASA has revealed a new study claiming that Mars’ distinctive red color comes from the mineral ferrihydrite, which forms in cool water. This discovery suggests that Mars may have had an environment capable of sustaining liquid water billions of years ago, before transitioning to its current dry climate.
Researchers analyzed data from several Mars missions and compared it to lab experiments, finding that ferrihydrite particles interact with light under Martian conditions. The study’s lead author, Adam Valantinas, believes that ferrihydrite is present in the dust and rock formations on Mars, contributing to its iconic red hue.
Senior author Jack Mustard describes the study as a “door-opening opportunity” for understanding ancient mineral formation and applying it to studying past climates on Mars. The research also suggests that Mars had an abundance of water billions of years ago, making it potentially habitable at the time. Future samples from the Perseverance rover will be crucial in verifying these findings.
Geronimo Villanueva, co-author of the study, notes that the discovery highlights the importance of coordinated research between NASA and international partners in exploring fundamental questions about our solar system. The researchers aim to understand ancient Martian climate conditions, chemical processes, and the potential for life on Mars by studying ferrihydrite formation and its implications for habitability.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/science/mars-red-color-may-related-habitable-past-study