A breakthrough discovery has shown that hot water may have once flowed on Mars billions of years ago. This finding comes from a 4.45-billion-year-old zircon grain found in the Martian meteorite NWA7034, also known as “Black Beauty.”
Hot Water on Mars? Evidence Emerges From Ancient Meteorites
The meteorite, discovered in 2011 in the Sahara Desert, is one of the oldest known Martian meteorites. Moreover, this discovery adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting Mars was once more hospitable.
Researchers used advanced techniques to study the zircon grain, revealing traces of water-rich fluids. These fluids suggest that Mars once had hydrothermal systems, which could have played a role in supporting life.
Consequently, the discovery opens a new chapter in understanding the potential for life on Mars in its ancient past.
The Significance of Hydrothermal Systems on Mars
Hydrothermal systems are known to be crucial for the development of life on Earth, providing the necessary conditions for early life forms. Therefore, the findings of the study suggest that Mars, during its early years, could have hosted similar systems.
In addition, the study of the zircon grain revealed elements such as iron, aluminium yttrium, and sodium, indicating that hot water was present.
Aaron Cavosie, from Curtin’s School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, said the discovery is vital for understanding Mars’ history. He further explained that these elements, discovered through nano-scale imaging, could indicate the presence of water in liquid form on Mars 4.45 billion years ago. As a result, this insight could transform our understanding of Mars as a potential cradle for life.
A Glimpse Into Mars’ Ancient Past
This is not the first indication of water on Mars. For example, earlier studies, such as those conducted by MIT in July, used satellite imagery to detect ancient riverbeds on Mars.
Thus, these studies suggest that Mars had flowing water around 4.1 billion years ago, supporting the hypothesis that the red planet may have been habitable in its distant past.
However, solar radiation eventually destroyed the Martian atmosphere, leading to the evaporation of water. In turn, this critical loss of water likely made it impossible for life to thrive. Nevertheless, the possibility that Mars had the right conditions for life at one point remains a fascinating prospect for scientists.
A New Era of Mars Exploration
The discovery of hot water on Mars, suggested by the zircon grain, offers new hope for understanding the planet’s potential for life.
Therefore, scientists continue to study the planet’s ancient past, uncovering more clues about its ability to sustain life in its early years. As a result, as research progresses, the dream of exploring life beyond Earth becomes even more plausible.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings