NASA is preparing to share significant findings this week that point to ancient life on Mars. Analysis of a rock sample collected by the Perseverance rover reveals data suggesting that the Red Planet may have hosted life billions of years ago. NASA will announce details about this sample, dubbed “Sapphire Canyon,” at a press conference.
NASA to Reveal New Findings
The rock sample in question was collected in July 2024 from an ancient riverbed on the rim of Jezero Crater. According to NASA data, this triangular-shaped piece of rock has millimeter-sized white spots and black borders.
These marks caught scientists’ attention because they resemble the fossilized remains of subterranean microbes on Earth. Additionally, organic compounds, calcium sulfate veins, and spots rich in iron phosphate were identified in the sample. Scientists say these marks make the rock one of the strongest indicators yet of life on Mars.
For the research, NASA used optical photothermal infrared spectroscopy (O-PTIR), a technique used exclusively at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. This method, which combines two lasers, extracts the chemical fingerprint of rock components and provides high submicron resolution.
Compared to traditional infrared spectroscopy, this method analyzes small areas of the surface more precisely and provides results within minutes. Previously used to verify the cleanliness of the Europa Clipper spacecraft, this technology also enabled detailed examination of organic compounds and mineral veins in the Sapphire Canyon sample.
Perseverance, which landed on Mars in February 2021, has collected 30 rock and soil samples to date. However, the data from Sapphire Canyon is said to provide the most striking results yet in the search for life on Mars. The exact significance of these findings will be clarified after NASA’s press conference.
{{user}} {{datetime}}
{{text}}