How Life May Exist On Mars With Atmosphere Close To Equilibrium
Thursday, August 14, 2014 - 00:40
in Astronomy & Space
This idea goes back in 1967. James Lovelock, originator of the Gaia hypothesis, found a way to use a planetary atmosphere to detect life. He suggested that we look for simultaneous presence of pairs of gases like oxygen and methane that react together. We can also search for gases such as oxygen above levels expected from abiotic processes.As far as we can see, Mars atmosphere does seem to be close to equilibrium in this way. Years later, Viking I and II found a barren desert-like surface. It seemed natural to conclude that there is no life on Mars. read more