A new study co-authored by Texas A&M University geologist Dr. Michael Tice has revealed potential chemical signatures of ancient Martian microbial life in rocks examined by NASA’s Perseverance rover.
“On Earth, things like these sometimes form in sediments where microbes are eating organic matter and ‘breathing’ rust and sulfate.
“This co-location of organic matter and redox-sensitive minerals is very compelling,” said Tice.
“It suggests that organic molecules may have played a role in driving the chemical reactions that formed these minerals.”
“We’ll be able to look at the isotopic composition of the organic matter, the fine-scale mineralogy, and even search for microfossils if they exist.
A new study co-authored by Texas AandM University geologist Dr. Michael Tice has revealed potential chemical signatures of ancient Martian microbial life in rocks examined by NASA’s Perseverance rover.
