Cosmic Rays Could Erase Signs of Life on Mars 2a66m Study Reveals

Cosmic rays are eroding key organic molecules on Mars, complicating the search for life. 2b6h22

Written by Gadgets 360 Staff | Updated: 12 December 2024 21:01 IST

Cosmic Rays Could Erase Signs of Life on Mars, Study Reveals

Photo Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS 316sm

On April 29, 2021, Perseverance captured an image of Mars' "Santa Cruz" hill.

Highlights

Cosmic rays breaking down Martian biosignatures rapidly
Salt-rich environments worsening radiation's effects
European mission aims to drill deeper to by radiation

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A study published in Mars. Researchers simulated the effects of cosmic rays on lipids, crucial molecular structures found in cell membranes. The findings indicate that lipids deteriorate rapidly when exposed to radiation, especially in salt-rich conditions. This adds to concerns about the preservation of biosignatures in regions on Mars that were once considered the most likely to host life.

As reported Anais Roussel, an astrobiologist at Georgetown University, highlighted the issue of salt-rich environments on Mars. Roussel stated to Space.com, that they go for salt-rich environments, but they could be one of the most damaging under radiation. These findings raise concerns about whether the surface of Mars, constantly exposed to cosmic radiation due to the absence of an atmospheric shield, can protect molecular evidence of ancient life.

Salt and Radiation: A Double Threat 3m4s53

Research indicated that lipids exposed to simulated cosmic rays deteriorated significantly within the equivalent of three million years, with up to half the molecules degrading into smaller fragments. Comparatively, some Martian rocks, like those in Gale Crater, have been exposed to radiation for approximately 80 million years. The inclusion of salts in the samples accelerated the breakdown, suggesting a chemical reaction between radiation-induced compounds and organic molecules. The exact mechanisms driving this rapid degradation remain under investigation.

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Deeper Exploration May Hold Answers 4q1x2k

Reportedly, while existing European Space Agency's Rosalind Franklin Rover, scheduled for launch in 2029, is designed to drill up to two metres. This capability could by much of the radiation-affected surface. In statements to Space.com, Roussel advocated for missions targeting Martian caves or lava tubes, which might offer pristine conditions. She said that it would be extremely challenging from an engineering point of view, but this increases hope.

The study emphasises the importance of revisiting exploration strategies to for the limitations posed by radiation and environmental factors on Mars.

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