Once upon a time, Mars was considered a dead sandy planet with no signs of life, but in October last year, when scientists discovered sulfates (salt minerals) in soil samples, the situation changed dramatically. The fact is that such sulfates occur if water evaporates from the surface of a space object under the influence of extremely high temperatures. Accordingly, if minerals of salts were found in the soil, then it can be assumed that earlier there was liquid water, which then disappeared somewhere. But now the Curiosity rover has found even more reliable evidence that the surface of Mars was not just water, but entire rivers, seas and even oceans.
The fact is that having overcome 800 meters on the surface of Mars, the rover managed to capture evidence of ancient water ripples that could have formed in rivers or lakes millions or even billions of years ago. Experts believe that in those days when Mars still had a completely different atmosphere, and there was water on the surface of the planet, the waves of a shallow lake or river stirred up the soil at the bottom, creating a certain wavy texture. It survived and over time, under the influence of new climatic conditions, turned into a durable stone, while retaining its original shape. Something similar can be seen on Earth in lakes and rivers that have been dramatically drained.
NASA has already stated that this is the most reliable confirmation of the existence of water on the surface of Mars in the entire history of the existence of this scientific mission. Experts believe that humanity has never seen anything like this before, and the evidence that the rover received is an incredible scientific discovery. After all, the presence of rivers, lakes and, probably, seas, indicates a high probability of the existence of life on this planet, the infrastructure of which was precisely supported by the water bodies of Mars millions or billions of years ago. Scientists suggest that this is where a rich microbial life once very long ago could have existed, although, of course, so far all statements are based on indirect evidence.
In addition, thanks to the photographs taken from the rover, experts concluded that there had been landslides on Mars earlier. This is indicated by the location of rather large stones, which could not have been in such a position and at such a height without the help of a powerful stream of water descending from top to bottom. Similar events often occur on Earth and they are most often associated with rock erosion. Now NASA scientists have to deliver soil samples to Earth from a new location in order to conduct a detailed analysis and make a final verdict.
Source: Trash Box
I’m Meagan Diaz, a news writer and author at World Stock Market. My main focus is on technology and stock market trends, and I’m passionate about helping readers stay informed on the ever-changing landscape. I bring extensive knowledge of the industry to my work as well as a knack for storytelling that makes my articles both accessible and engaging.
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