Why it matters
Benjamin Cardenas, assistant professor of geology at Penn State University, said the study provides the strongest evidence that Mars once had plenty of water and a more welcoming living environment.
Cardenas noted that life on Earth is believed to emerge through the interaction between the ocean and the land, a discovery suggests that similar conditions may already exist on Mars that may support microbial life.
A team of Chinese and American researchers analyzed data from China’s Zhurong Rover and identified hidden rock formations below the Martian surface, further supporting the former North Sea hypothesis.
Also read: Amanda Pritchard
The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, builds on Zulong’s 2021 exploration of the Utopia Project region in search of ancient water or ice.
What have scientists discovered?
Scientists have discovered underground sediments in the Utopian Project area of Mars, indicating the existence of ancient oceans.
Radar data reveal that front-end sediments (similar to typical sediments on Earth’s beaches) are formed by waves and tide currents.
Michael Manga of UC Berkeley explained that the beaches may have received sand from the rivers, and the waves transported along the coastline. The study shows that the dynamic interaction between air and water, as well as evidence of wind, waves and sand.
Cardenas stressed that these areas on Mars resemble the ancient beaches and river delta. Planetary scientist Aaron Cavosie describes the discovery as an “extraordinary contribution” to Martian water research.
Also Read: Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston reunite romcom? What we know so far
FAQ:
1. What part of Mars has the rover explored?
Wanderers explore the southern part of the utopia planitia, a large plain in the northern hemisphere of Mars.
2. What is Zhurong Rover?
China’s Zhurong Rover is a robotic exploration tool that is part of China’s Astronomical 1 mission to Mars. It landed on Mars on May 14, 2021 and became China’s first rover to explore the Red Planet.
Disclaimer: This content is written by a third party. The views expressed here are the views of the respective authors/entities and do not represent the views of the Economic Times (ET). ET does not warrant, warrant, or endorse any of its contents, nor is it responsible for them in any way. Please take all necessary steps to make sure that any information and content provided is correct, updated and verified. ET hereby disclaims any warranties, express or implied, relating to the Report and any Content.
