Evidence of active volcanoes on Mars may boost chances of finding life
New Scientist · Matthew Sparkes ·
Recent fractures on the surface of Mars and gases detected by an orbiter probe provide some of the strongest evidence yet that the planet is volcanically active
Evidence of volcanic activity was detected near Alba Mons on Mars
Mars may be volcanically active, say scientists who have linked evidence of gases often produced by magma with photographs of fresh fissures found on the surface of the Red Planet. The findings could be interpreted as good news in the hunt for life, as a continuous heat source would be needed to keep microorganisms safe from frigid temperatures on the surface.
Scientists have seen evidence of volcanoes on Mars in the past few million years and seismic activity has hinted that some may still be active, but no evidence of lava flows or current eruptions had previously been found.
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