"Surprising Evidence of Recent Volcanic Activity and Ancient Microbial Life on Mars"
Researchers from the University of Arizona have used spacecraft images and ground penetrating radar data to create 3D reconstructions of lava flows in Mars' Elysium Planitia, revealing evidence of recent volcanic activity on the Red Planet. The team discovered over 40 volcanic events, with the largest filling a Martian valley with almost 1,000 cubic miles of basalt. These findings challenge the notion that Mars is geologically inactive and have implications for the planet's potential to harbor microbial life. The research also suggests that volcanic activity may have brought water to the Martian surface, which could be important for future crewed missions.
