Science
, centers on the identification of siderite, an iron carbonate material, within sulfate-rich layers of Mount Sharp. These carbon deposits indicate that the ancient Martian atmosphere contained enough carbon dioxide to potentially support liquid water on the surface, a critical ingredient for life.
Dr. Ben Tutolo, a participating scientist on the Curiosity Rover team from the University of Calgary, emphasizes the importance of this finding: “The discovery of large carbon deposits in Gale Crater represents both a surprising and important breakthrough in our understanding of the geologic and atmospheric evolution of Mars.” This discovery marks a significant step towards understanding the transition of Mars from a warm, wet planet to the cold, dry state it is today.
What does this carbon cycle tell us about Mars’ past?