Scientists have recently unveiled significant evidence of liquid water deep beneath the Martian surface, shifting long-held beliefs about the planet's water history.
This discovery, made by analyzing data from NASA's Mars Insight Lander, points to liquid water residing under fractured igneous rocks within Mars' mid-crust.
Data for this study came from four years’ worth of ground motion records gathered by the lander's seismometer.
By examining seismic velocities—essentially the speed at which seismic waves travel through materials—the scientists were able to detail the composition of subterranean layers on Mars.
Professor Michael Manga at the University of California, Berkeley, explained these findings utilize techniques similar to those used for oil exploration on Earth.
He noted, "This study answers the big question of where did all the Martian water go?"
Mars has long fascinated scientists, especially considering evidence of ancient lakes and rivers on its surface—dating back roughly three billion years.
While many assumed most of this water was vaporized and lost to space over time, emerging research contradicts this view.
A 2021 study from Caltech and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory found much of Mars' water remains trapped beneath its crust.
Current researchers involved with the new findings suggest similar underground water reservoirs likely exist globally on Mars, estimating potentially enough liquid water to pool beneath the planet's surface up to half-a-mile deep.
Manga added, "Much of our water is underground, and there's no reason for it not to be the case on Mars too."
This evidence is particularly tantalizing for astrobiologists, as bodies of liquid water could imply habitable conditions beneath the surface.
But, there’s a catch: the layers containing this water are located between approximately 7 and 12.5 miles down, making access extraordinarily challenging.
Manga admitted, "Drilling to find this water, even with advanced technology, would be immensely difficult."
The Insight lander, which wrapped up its primary mission last December, has recorded about 1,319 seismic events during its operational lifespan, contributing invaluable data to our Martian knowledge.
Measuring the speed of seismic waves allowed scientists to deduce the materials existing underground, shedding light on the planet's watery past.
Further, Professor Manga emphasized the importance of water on Mars, stating it is the "most important molecule" for shaping planetary evolution.
Understanding Mars' water cycles is critical for assessing its climatic changes and geological features over millions of years.
By learning where water is confined on Mars, scientists can form better hypotheses about past life on the planet.
According to the researchers, groundwater could also support future human missions, as liquid water could be used for drinking and sustaining habitats.
The historical insights uncovered alongside this liquid water data can help paint a fuller picture of Mars' evolutionary narrative.
Although NASA's work continues to illuminate the Martian inquiry, private entities are also eyeing the potential of Martian resources.
Manga concluded with optimism, saying these findings open more avenues for exploration and vitality on Mars.
Future missions may not involve just robotic explorers but humans seeking to understand their interplanetary neighbor more closely.
This exciting discovery adds to the wealth of knowledge about Mars, answering questions from our collective curiosity about the cosmos.
