Researchers have uncovered evidence of an ancient desert environment on Mars with intermittent oases, using data from the Curiosity rover. A new model suggests that the planet’s climate was once habitable due to fluctuations in its atmospheric composition and temperature.
According to the study led by Edwin Kite from the University of Chicago, increased solar radiation caused water to melt on Mars, leading to more liquid water and interactions with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This reaction trapped carbon dioxide in rocks, reducing the greenhouse effect and making the planet colder and drier.
The researchers propose that changes in Mars’ orbit and volcanic activity also contributed to the fluctuating desert environment, which is now characterized by a thinning of its atmosphere and loss of liquid water on the surface. The discovery provides new insights into the history of Mars and how it transitioned from a warm, watery planet to a cold, dry one.
The study built upon existing evidence of wet and dry periods on Mars, but shed light on the driving forces behind these cycles. By analyzing carbonates in rocks, the researchers were able to develop a climate model that simulates the changes in Martian atmosphere over billions of years.
While the findings are promising, further research is needed to test the assumptions made by the study. The discovery highlights the importance of continued exploration and investigation into Mars’ ancient environment, providing valuable insights into the planet’s potential for supporting life.
Source: https://www.theregister.com/2025/07/04/mars_was_once_a_desert