Ever since the discovery of methane on Mars, scientists have wondered if the Red Planet might harbor life. Now, researchers know where to look: deep under the surface of a broad Martian plain.
The Mars methane mystery has befuddled scientists for years. Rovers on the surface have observed seasonal fluctuations of methane, but orbiting satellites have not found any significant trace of the molecule. This kind of variability is an intriguing, but unproven, hint that a particular kind of life might exist on Mars.
Broadly speaking, however, Mars appears to be uninhabitable. The surface temperatures are usually well below freezing, there's barely any atmosphere, and deadly cosmic and solar rays constantly bombard the planet. So, while ancient Mars once had oceans and warmer climates, we're unlikely to find any living creatures on or near the Martian surface.
Source: www.space.com
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