Questions and Answers
Scientists found evidence of a large underground reservoir of ______ on Mars.
water
The seismic data was collected by the now-defunct ______ lander.
Insight
The underground water is trapped in rocks about seven to twelve miles below the surface of the Martian ______.
crust
Seismic data indicates that cracks and pores in rocks are filled with liquid ______.
Signup and view all the answers
There could be enough groundwater to cover the entire planet in an ocean about a mile ______.
Signup and view all the answers
The detection of liquid water on Mars sparks renewed interest in the possibility of ______ life existing on Mars.
Signup and view all the answers
The research has found no evidence for ______ on Mars.
Signup and view all the answers
Deep mines on Earth host life, suggesting that the underground reservoir could be a habitable ______.
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Water on Mars
- Archive data from NASA's Insight lander shows evidence of a large underground reservoir on Mars, suggesting potential for liquid water.
- This water is located 7 to 12 miles (11.5-20 kilometers) beneath the Martian crust, making access difficult for future colonists or astronauts.
Seismic Discoveries
- Seismic data from Insight reveals that cracks and pores in deep Martian rocks contain liquid water.
- Techniques similar to those used in geologists' mapping of underground aquifers were applied to identify the water.
- The presence of a deep layer of fractured igneous rock saturated with liquid water was suggested by the seismic data.
- The estimated groundwater volume could create an ocean covering the entire planet to a depth of about one mile.
- Actual surface oceans are believed to have disappeared over three billion years ago.
Implications for Life on Mars
- The detection of liquid water enhances the possibility of microbial life existing on Mars, as water is essential for life.
- Michael Manga, a professor at UC Berkeley, states that the underground reservoir could be a habitable environment akin to deep mines or ocean floors on Earth.
- While no direct evidence of life has been found, the conditions identified could potentially support life.
Terraforming Prospects
- Recent discussions about terraforming Mars involve the potential release of dust particles into the atmosphere to warm it by over 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- This warming could create suitable conditions for liquid water on Mars' surface.
- Edwin Kite from the University of Chicago notes that these findings indicate the barriers to warming Mars for liquid water are less significant than previously thought.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz explores the recent findings on the presence of liquid water on Mars, based on NASA's Insight lander data. It delves into the seismic discoveries that indicate underground reservoirs and evaluates the potential implications for microbial life on the planet. Test your knowledge on these exciting developments in Martian exploration!
