US EditionCuriosity Rover Detects 'Origin-of-Life' Molecules on Mars
The rover’s first off-Earth wet chemistry test found seven molecules never before confirmed on Mars and strengthened the case for preserved ancient organics.
- On Tuesday, NASA's Curiosity rover identified over 20 organic molecules in clay-rich Martian sandstones within the Gale crater, according to a study led by astrobiologist Amy Williams of the University of Florida published in Nature Communications.
- Researchers performed a novel chemical experiment using tetramethylammonium hydroxide to break down complex organic matter, a technique never before attempted on another planet. The rover only carried two cups of this chemical, requiring careful site selection.
- Among detected compounds was a nitrogen-containing molecule resembling proto-DNA, alongside benzothiophene, a sulfurous chemical often delivered by meteorites. The findings confirm that complex macromolecular carbon remains preserved in Mars's subsurface despite harsh radiation.
- Although the findings indicate Mars was a habitable world, Williams cautioned, "We cannot yet say that Mars ever harbored life." Early in its history, the planet was warmer and wetter than today.
- The validated TMAH technique will serve as a "trailblazer for upcoming planetary missions," Williams said. Versions are destined for the European Space Agency's Rosalind Franklin rover at Mars's Oxia Planum and the Dragonfly rotorcraft mission to Saturn's moon Titan.
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116 Articles
MSL Curiosity Found New Organic Chemicals On Mars, Proof That The Planet Can Preserve Ancient Biosignatures
MSL Curiosity found 7 new organic molecules preserved in Martian sandstone. While they aren't proof that life existed on Mars, they are important. They show that the planet is capable of protecting ancient biosignatures from radiation and preserving them in rock.
Only twice could the NASA Rover "Curiosity" perform its most important experiment on Mars. What came out the first time, the research inspires.
Sky News UK
Great Yorkshire RadioMars rover discovers organic molecules - hinting at possibility of ancient life
NASA's Curiosity rover has found organic molecules on Mars that have never been detected before - hinting at the possibility there was once life on the Red Planet.
The most important experiment of the Mars Rover was limited to twice. "Curiosity" found in the first attempt exceeds all expectations.
The Mars rover "Curiosity" has discovered complex organic molecules on the Red Planet. The discovery provides evidence that there may have been the chemical prerequisites for life there.
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