Mars rock hints at ancient life.
Mars rock with organic carbon may hint at ancient microbial life.
Why it matters
- Rock contains organic carbon and minerals linked to Earth’s microbial life.
- Suggests Mars may have hosted microbial life.
By the numbers
- Located in Jezero Crater, an ancient lake system.
- Contains vivianite and greigite, minerals tied to microbial activity on Earth.
The big picture
- Discovery sets stage for further Martian sample analysis.
- Potential step in understanding Mars' past habitability.
What they're saying
- Scientists excited but cautious; more evidence needed.
- Budget cuts threaten future missions and research.
Caveats
- Not conclusive proof; abiotic processes could explain findings.
- Sample needs Earth-based analysis.
- Mars Sample Return mission faces budget issues.
What’s next
- Perseverance collected a sample, named Sapphire Canyon.
- Future missions aim to return samples to Earth.