Guide to Mars

Methane has been detected in Mars’ atmosphere, with levels that fluctuate seasonally. On Earth, methane is primarily produced by biological processes, but it can also result from geological activity. The source of Martian methane remains unknown, leaving open the possibility of microbial life or undiscovered geological processes.

Evidence suggests that liquid water once flowed on Mars, carving valleys and creating mineral deposits. However, the planet’s current cold and arid conditions make the existence of liquid water on the surface unlikely today. The question of where this water went and how long it persisted remains a significant mystery.

Mars exhibits a striking difference between its northern and southern hemispheres: the north is relatively smooth and low-lying, while the south is heavily cratered and elevated. The cause of this dichotomy is still debated, with theories ranging from massive impacts to ancient tectonic processes.

Certain Martian rocks exhibit features that some scientists interpret as potential signs of ancient microbial life. For instance, the “Cheyava Falls” rock discovered by NASA’s Perseverance rover contains spots and veins that may indicate the presence of organic compounds. However, distinguishing between biological and non-biological origins remains challenging.