The data and imagery coming from Mars continues to be amazing. Above is a picture of "rhythmic bedding" of sedimentary rocks in a Martian crater. The periodicity of the layering is reportedly best explained by cyclic changes in the planet's axis, presumably resulting in secondary changes in the planet's hydrology. Layered rocks were first noted I think about four years ago, but these new images are fantastic. Coupled with the recent discoveries of water ice and snow and frost, it's becoming much easier to think of Mars as a living planet.
Here's an article about a John Hopkins scientist's Mars geologic research.
ReplyDeletehttps://inlportal.inl.gov/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=1269&mode=2&featurestory=DA_166367
Recently the Idaho National Laboratory created a laser that could be used to help search for life on Mars.
https://inlportal.inl.gov/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=1555&mode=2&featurestory=DA_154364