Scientists have successfully identified microscopic fossil evidence of ancient bacterial life found on Mars, which is very similar to the rocks on Mars, and may be to discover whether life once existed on the Red Planet.
The groundbreaking study, published February 25 in the fields of astronomy and space science, shows that a specialized laser-driven device can detect signs of the lifespan of microorganisms preserved in gypsum, a mineral found on Mars , formed when the water evaporates.
“Our discovery provides a methodological framework for detecting biosignatures of Martian sulfate minerals and potentially guiding future Martian exploration missions,” said YouCef Sellam, principal author and doctoral student at the School of Physics at the University of Bern. “Our discovery provides a methodological framework for detecting biosignatures of Martian sulfate minerals and has the potential to guide future Martian exploration missions.” Laser ablation ionization mass spectrometer is a space-pushing instrument that can effectively detect biosignatures in sulfate minerals. This technology can be incorporated into future Mars rovers or landers for in-situ analysis.”
Ancient bodies of water as cradle of life
Four billion years ago, Mars was a wet world with evidence of lakes, rivers and even oceans. As these water bodies evaporate over time, they leave behind mineral deposits, including gypsum and other sulfates, which may retain any microbial lifespan present in these environments.
“Gypsum has been widely detected on the Martian surface and is known for its excellent fossil potential,” Seram explained. “It quickly formed, capturing microorganisms before decomposition occurs and retaining biological structures and chemical biosignatures.”
In their study, the researchers examined gypsum samples from the Sidi Boutbal quarry in Algeria. These rocks formed about the Messian salinity crisis, about 530,000 to 60,000 years ago, when the Mediterranean was isolated from the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in widespread evaporation, creating conditions similar to ancient Mars.
“When the Messian salinity crisis occurred when the local Mediterranean Sea was cut from the Atlantic Ocean,” Seram said. “This led to rapid evaporation, causing the ocean to become hypnotic salts and deposited a thick layer of evaporation layers including gypsum. These deposits The substance provides excellent terrestrial analogs for Martian sulfate sediments.”
Laser accuracy reveals ancient life
Using a microscopic laser ablation ionization mass spectrometer, a device designed specifically for potential space applications, the team analyzed Algerian gypsum samples at the microscopic level. The instrument works by firing laser pulses into the sample, causing a small amount of material to evaporate, and then analyzes its chemical composition with micron accuracy.
This detailed analysis, combined with optical microscopy, reveals the existence of long, twisted fossil filaments embedded in the gypsum. Depending on their morphology and composition, these filaments are considered as residues of sulfur-oxidized bacteria similar to modern organisms such as beggarotha.
The team not only identified the physical structure of ancient microorganisms, but also identified the unique mineral formations around them, including dolomite, clay minerals and pyrite. The presence of these specific minerals provides additional evidence for biological activity, as certain types of bacteria can affect the formation of these minerals that otherwise would have required higher temperatures and pressures.
Multiple lines of evidence
What makes the discovery particularly convincing is the combination of multiple biosignatures. The researchers observed that morphological features (unique twisted, hollow filament structures) and chemical features together point toward biological origins, rather than just minerals.
The study identified specific criteria for distinguishing true microbial fossils from non-biological mineral structures. These include irregular, curved morphology, hollow structures, the presence of necessary chemical elements, carbonaceous substances, and minerals (such as clay or dolomites), which may be affected by bacterial activity.
Laser spectrometers detected an increase in the level of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus and sulfur in the concentrations in the fossil filaments, including the fossil filaments – a chemical fingerprint that is distinct from the surrounding gypsum matrix.
Impact on Mars exploration
This study provides promising ways for future missions to Mars. By equipping the rovers or landers with similar laser spectroscopy techniques, scientists can analyze comparable combinations of Martian gypsum sediments in morphological and chemical biosignatures.
The presence of clay and dolomite in Martian gypsum may be particularly important. As the researchers pointed out, clay-like primitive organisms (cells without nuclei) need to form clay. They also promote dolomite formation by increasing the alkalinity around them and concentrating ions in their cell envelopes.
For dolomite in gypsum without biological influence, environmental conditions will be required to be inconsistent with our understanding of Mars’ past.
However, the research team acknowledges future challenges. “Although our findings strongly support the biobiologicity of fossil silk in gypsum, it remains a challenge to distinguish true biosignature from abiotic mineral formation,” Sellam warned. “Another independent detection method will improve the Confidence in life detection. In addition, Mars has unique environmental conditions that may affect biosignature preservation during geological periods. Further research is needed.”
Personal milestone
In addition to its scientific significance, the study also marks an important milestone in Algeria’s participation in planetary science research.
“This study is the first astronomical study involving Algeria and the first to use Algerian terrestrial analogs for Mars,” Seram said. “As an Algerian researcher, I am introducing my country to planets.” Very proud of the field of science.”
The researchers dedicated the work to his late father: “This work is also dedicated to memory of his father, a source of powerful strength and encouragement. Losing him in this study was the most difficult of my life. One of the moments. I hope he is proud of what I have achieved.”
As space agencies continue to explore Mars with increasingly sophisticated instruments, this study provides a valuable blueprint for one of the most profound questions of science: Does life surpass Earth? As technologies like those shown in this study continue to advance, we may get closer and closer to the answer.
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