Excitement mounts among scientists regarding the most recent geological findings hinting at potential life existence on Mars. The Red Planet, however, remains enigmatic with plausible non-biological explanations for the observed formations, as history has shown. Geologist Joel Hurowitz, during a recent discussion on Quirks & Quarks, highlighted the discovery of a significant rock by the Perseverance rover in an area believed to have once housed a river delta flowing into an ancient Martian lake.
The presence of vivianite and greigite, two chemicals identified in the delta, commonly links to microbial soil activity on Earth, sparking considerable enthusiasm. Nonetheless, these compounds can also form through chemical reactions under specific circumstances, leaving the question of potential Martian life unanswered without conclusive evidence.
Mars has long tantalized researchers with the prospect of surface life, stemming back to observations by American astronomer Percival Lowell in 1894. Lowell’s theory of engineered canals on Mars, akin to the Panama or Suez Canals, fueled science fiction narratives like H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds envisioning Martian civilizations. Subsequent robotic missions to Mars in the 1970s dispelled Lowell’s canal hypothesis, revealing a cratered landscape reminiscent of the moon rather than a habitable realm.
Despite over a century of exploration, definitive proof of surface life on Mars remains elusive. However, the possibility of subterranean life within the Martian crust emerges as an intriguing prospect. Analogous to Earth’s deep microbial ecosystems thriving independently of sunlight, Mars’ permafrost layer raises the potential for microbial habitats in subsurface liquid water reservoirs.
Expanding the search beyond Mars to the multitude of exoplanets orbiting distant stars, many exhibiting harsh surface conditions, hints at the concealed abundance of underground life forms across the universe. As NASA introduces a fresh cadre of astronaut candidates preparing for lunar and Martian missions, the prospect of equipping them with skills for subsurface exploration emerges as a vital consideration alongside traditional spacefaring abilities.
