NASA's Perseverance rover, Mars Jezero CraterHe uncovered important clues about the past of the Red Planet with his analyses. Laser Stimulated Dissociation Spectroscopy Light-colored rocks examined with the method yielded results that surprised scientists.
Evidence for Warm, Wet Periods on Mars
in the US Roger Wiens, a planetary scientist at Purdue University, the rocks examined are from the Earth in hot climates with heavy rainfall or in hydrothermal systems These findings indicate that Mars contains minerals that are formed It contradicts the idea that it is a cold and dry planet. and suggests that the planet may have had very different conditions in the past.
According to scientists, such minerals rocks that have been left in flowing water for a long time is occurring. Hot water removes soluble elements from rocks, leaving only the most resistant mineralsThe rocks analyzed by Perseverance are unlike any type of rock previously discovered on Mars.
Discovered Minerals: Kaolinite and Spinel
Research has shown that rocks are largely kaolinite a called silicate clay mineral revealed that the formation of Mars kaolinite, harder than on Earth. Scientists believe this difference It may be caused by erosion processes on Mars. is thinking.
In addition, in rocks, on Earth a gemstone containing magnesium and aluminum known as spinel mineral was also found. However, on Mars How is spinel formed? is not yet known. Experts, This mineral is formed as a result of volcanic or metamorphic processes. considers that it may have occurred.
Could Mars Have Been More Habitable in the Past?
This discovery suggests that Mars was may have experienced much hotter and more humid periods makes me think. If these minerals are really due to hot springs or heavy rainfall if this situation occurs Strong evidence that conditions suitable for life may have existed on Mars in the past It can offer.
As the Perseverance rover continues its research on the surface of Mars, scientists the formation processes of these rocks ve the planet's connections to its water history plans to study it in more detail. Such discoveries are crucial to future human missions to Mars and to our understanding of the planet's evolution.
