NASA Finds Evidence of Ancient Liquid Water on Mars

NASA's Curiosity rover has made a significant discovery in Gale Crater, uncovering ancient ripple marks that provide evidence of ice-free lakes on Mars, dating back 3.7 billion years. These ripples indicate that Mars once had a warm and dense atmosphere capable of sustaining liquid water, challenging previous assumptions about the planet's habitability. The ripple formations, found in two distinct locations, suggest the presence of shallow lakes that could have fostered conditions suitable for microbial life. Researchers have used computer modeling to estimate these lakes were less than two meters deep and shaped by wind action. This finding enhances our understanding of Mars' climate evolution and the potential for life in its ancient past. The study highlights the need for further exploration to understand the duration and impact of these water bodies on Mars' geological history.