According to NASA, dark, streaky features about 100 meters long, which appear seasonally at various locations on the Martian surface, are believed to be formed by the flow of briny water down slopes. The presence of salt plays a crucial role, as without it, the water would freeze in the frigid temperatures on Mars.
This finding comes from analyzing images captured by NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, raising the possibility of life or even bacteria on Mars.
.jpg)
An image capturing the dark streaky features on the surface of Mars. Photo: NASA
It also provides encouragement for future manned missions to Mars, as astronauts would not need to carry water if they can rely on the water sources found on the red planet. “Among the many scientific discoveries related to the Martian surface, these latest findings help us understand more about the availability of resources that can be beneficial for future journeys to Mars,” said John Grunsfeld, a NASA official, during a press conference on September 28th.
NASA researchers have not yet explained the origin of the briny water on Mars, although they have put forth some hypotheses. It could be melted ice beneath the surface, the result of abundant salt in Martian soil drawing water from the atmosphere, or liquid seeping up from an underground aquifer.
.jpg)
The surface of Mars. Photo: NASA
“We now know that Mars once had an environment much like Earth, with salty, warm seas and freshwater lakes. But something happened to Mars that caused its water sources to be lost,” said Jim Green, NASA’s Director of Planetary Science.
Grunsfeld added that this new discovery further strengthens NASA’s determination to send humans to Mars in the future.
(According to ABC News, CNN)