Questioning "Proof" of Past Life on Mars Found Through Rocks on Earth

In summary, the conversation revolves around the topic of "proof" of past life on Mars and its connection to rocks found on Earth. One person expresses skepticism, questioning if real proof would be found on the planet itself rather than through rocks found on Earth. Another person shares information about a team that claims to be close to proving the existence of life on Mars, but others are doubtful of their claims. The possibility of the Mars Science Laboratory rover providing more concrete evidence in the future is also discussed.
  • #1
Pattonias
197
0
I'm skeptical of "proof" of past life on Mars as as result of rocks found on Earth.

I'm skeptical of "proof" of past life on Mars as a result of rocks found on Earth.


http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/285660"


Wouldn't real proof be found on the planet? I thought these Martian rocks were discredited years ago.


Anyone care to shed more light on the topic?
 
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  • #2


McKay told the website Spaceflight Now that while his team has not officially found proof of life on Mars, that they are 'very, very close to proving there is or has been life there'
And while I haven't won the lottery yet - I'm very very close to winning it this week.

You could prove there had been life on Mars from these rocks, although you would have a job proving that the rock came from Mars and any features weren't a record of some life on Earth that is now extinct - but to say we haven't found anything yet so we are very close is a bit PR spin.
 
  • #3


I suspect the answer is "no" but do the rovers have the capability of taking microscopic photos of the rocks they encounter? Shots that might demonstrate the same fossilized bacteria?
 
  • #4


The Mars Science Laboratory rover is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2011. It will feature a chemical laser that can vaporize the surfaces of rocks, and spectrographs that can analyze the released gases from distances raging from 4-30 feet. That's a whole lot less speculative than studying "Mars rocks" found on Earth.
 

Related to Questioning "Proof" of Past Life on Mars Found Through Rocks on Earth

1. What is the evidence for past life on Mars found through rocks on Earth?

The evidence for past life on Mars found through rocks on Earth comes from the discovery of microfossils in Martian meteorites. These microfossils show structures and features similar to those found in Earth's oldest fossils, suggesting that they may have originated from ancient Martian life forms.

2. How were these rocks from Mars able to make their way to Earth?

It is believed that these rocks were blasted off the surface of Mars during a large impact event, and then traveled through space until they eventually landed on Earth as meteorites. This process, known as lithopanspermia, has been proposed as a possible mechanism for the transfer of life between planets.

3. How do we know that these microfossils are not contaminants from Earth?

Scientists have taken great care to ensure that the samples used in these studies are not contaminated by Earth-based microorganisms. This includes analyzing the mineralogy and geochemistry of the rocks to confirm their Martian origin, as well as using techniques such as DNA sequencing to rule out any Earth-based contamination.

4. What implications does this discovery have for the search for life on other planets?

The discovery of possible past life on Mars has significant implications for the search for life elsewhere in the universe. It suggests that life may not be unique to Earth and that other planets, even those with harsh environments, may have the potential to support life. This discovery also highlights the importance of studying other planets, such as Mars, to better understand the conditions that could lead to the development and preservation of life.

5. What further research is needed to confirm the existence of past life on Mars?

While the discovery of possible past life on Mars is exciting, further research is needed to confirm its existence. This could include additional studies of Martian meteorites, as well as future missions to Mars that could collect and analyze samples directly from the planet's surface. Additionally, the development of new technologies and techniques will be crucial in our ongoing search for evidence of past or present life on Mars.

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