Jezero Crater - Revision history

Suitupshowup: /* Timeline of activities and discoveries by Perseverance */

2026-02-04T18:13:35Z

Timeline of activities and discoveries by Perseverance

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:13, 4 February 2026
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	After a large impact created Jezero Crater hot magma moved and accumulated under the ground forming what are called intrusions. Some are called sills or lacoliths depending on their shapes. In these chambers, magma underwent a slow cooling. Scientists concluded that because the rocks they examined contained large crystals. Such crystals are produced by very slow cooling. Later erosion exposed these old chambers. The rocks with the large crystals was named the Seith Formation. Lava, then came into Jezero. The basalt that was formed was detected by Perseverance, and the formation was called the Maaza Formation. It also found carbonate minerals. These minerals meant that water came in and formed a lake. Just looking at satellite pictures of Jezero, one might guess that only minerals derived from sedimentary rocks would be found on the surface. However, several classes of rocks were formed that indicated a complex history. <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-perseverance-mars-rover-ready-to-roll-for-miles-in-years-ahead/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1-nasajpl&utm_content=daily20251218-3</ref> <ref>https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8264</ref> <ref>Kenneth H. Williford et al. ,Carbonated ultramafic igneous rocks in Jezero crater, Mars.Science0,eadu8264DOI:10.1126/science.adu8264</ref>		After a large impact created Jezero Crater hot magma moved and accumulated under the ground forming what are called intrusions. Some are called sills or lacoliths depending on their shapes. In these chambers, magma underwent a slow cooling. Scientists concluded that because the rocks they examined contained large crystals. Such crystals are produced by very slow cooling. Later erosion exposed these old chambers. The rocks with the large crystals was named the Seith Formation. Lava, then came into Jezero. The basalt that was formed was detected by Perseverance, and the formation was called the Maaza Formation. It also found carbonate minerals. These minerals meant that water came in and formed a lake. Just looking at satellite pictures of Jezero, one might guess that only minerals derived from sedimentary rocks would be found on the surface. However, several classes of rocks were formed that indicated a complex history. <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-perseverance-mars-rover-ready-to-roll-for-miles-in-years-ahead/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1-nasajpl&utm_content=daily20251218-3</ref> <ref>https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8264</ref> <ref>Kenneth H. Williford et al. ,Carbonated ultramafic igneous rocks in Jezero crater, Mars.Science0,eadu8264DOI:10.1126/science.adu8264</ref>

	A large team of scientists published a paper about how Perseverance has discovered thousands of bleached rocks that are loaded with a mineral difficult to form without long-term exposure to water. This ~~means that adding fresh~~ evidence that Mars was warmer, wetter and possibly rain-soaked billions of years ago.		A large team of scientists published a paper about how Perseverance has discovered thousands of bleached rocks that are loaded with a mineral difficult to form without long-term exposure to water. This is evidence that Mars was warmer, wetter and possibly rain-soaked billions of years ago.
	The bleached rocks are loaded with kaolinite, a soft, white, clay mineral that, on Earth, usually forms when water slowly dissolves and carries other elements from rock over thousands to millions of years. On Earth, it is most commonly found in warm, humid environments like rainforests. The researchers believe that these rocks could represent evidence of an ancient warmer and wetter climate where there was rain falling for millions of years.		The bleached rocks are loaded with kaolinite, a soft, white, clay mineral that, on Earth, usually forms when water slowly dissolves and carries other elements from rock over thousands to millions of years. On Earth, it is most commonly found in warm, humid environments like rainforests. The researchers believe that these rocks could represent evidence of an ancient warmer and wetter climate where there was rain falling for millions of years.
	Several thousand of these kaolinite-rich rocks ranging from small pebbles to large boulders scattered across the surface of Jezero Crater were discovered by Perseverance. They ranged in size from small pebbles to large boulders. They are aluminum-rich (30-45 wt% Al2O3) and are depleted of iron and magnesium.<ref>https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02856-3</ref> <ref>https://outlook.live.com/mail/0/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWg0Akr%2FaXi2mwEKimhNbcs0ITQAJCI9C2AAA</ref> <ref>Broz, A.P., Horgan, B.H.N., Bedford, C. et al. Alteration history of aluminum-rich rocks at Jezero crater, Mars. Commun Earth Environ 6, 935 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-025-02856-3</ref>		Several thousand of these kaolinite-rich rocks ranging from small pebbles to large boulders scattered across the surface of Jezero Crater were discovered by Perseverance. They ranged in size from small pebbles to large boulders. They are aluminum-rich (30-45 wt% Al2O3) and are depleted of iron and magnesium.<ref>https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02856-3</ref> <ref>https://outlook.live.com/mail/0/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWg0Akr%2FaXi2mwEKimhNbcs0ITQAJCI9C2AAA</ref> <ref>Broz, A.P., Horgan, B.H.N., Bedford, C. et al. Alteration history of aluminum-rich rocks at Jezero crater, Mars. Commun Earth Environ 6, 935 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-025-02856-3</ref>

Suitupshowup: /* Timeline of activities and discoveries by Perseverance */

2026-02-04T18:01:05Z

Timeline of activities and discoveries by Perseverance

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:01, 4 February 2026
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	A large team of scientists published a paper about how Perseverance has discovered thousands of bleached rocks that are loaded with a mineral difficult to form without long-term exposure to water. This means that adding fresh evidence that Mars was warmer, wetter and possibly rain-soaked billions of years ago.		A large team of scientists published a paper about how Perseverance has discovered thousands of bleached rocks that are loaded with a mineral difficult to form without long-term exposure to water. This means that adding fresh evidence that Mars was warmer, wetter and possibly rain-soaked billions of years ago.
	The bleached rocks are loaded with kaolinite, a soft, white, clay mineral that, on Earth, usually forms when water slowly dissolves and carries other elements from rock over thousands to millions of years. On Earth, it is most commonly found in warm, humid environments like rainforests. The researchers believe that these rocks could be evidence of an ancient warmer and wetter climate where there was rain falling for millions of years.		The bleached rocks are loaded with kaolinite, a soft, white, clay mineral that, on Earth, usually forms when water slowly dissolves and carries other elements from rock over thousands to millions of years. On Earth, it is most commonly found in warm, humid environments like rainforests. The researchers believe that these rocks could represent evidence of an ancient warmer and wetter climate where there was rain falling for millions of years.
	Several thousand of these kaolinite-rich rocks ranging from small pebbles to large boulders scattered across the surface of Jezero Crater were discovered by Perseverance. They ranged in size from small pebbles to large boulders. They are aluminum-rich (30-45 wt% Al2O3) and are depleted of iron and magnesium.<ref>https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02856-3</ref> <ref>https://outlook.live.com/mail/0/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWg0Akr%2FaXi2mwEKimhNbcs0ITQAJCI9C2AAA</ref> <ref>Broz, A.P., Horgan, B.H.N., Bedford, C. et al. Alteration history of aluminum-rich rocks at Jezero crater, Mars. Commun Earth Environ 6, 935 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-025-02856-3</ref>		Several thousand of these kaolinite-rich rocks ranging from small pebbles to large boulders scattered across the surface of Jezero Crater were discovered by Perseverance. They ranged in size from small pebbles to large boulders. They are aluminum-rich (30-45 wt% Al2O3) and are depleted of iron and magnesium.<ref>https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02856-3</ref> <ref>https://outlook.live.com/mail/0/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWg0Akr%2FaXi2mwEKimhNbcs0ITQAJCI9C2AAA</ref> <ref>Broz, A.P., Horgan, B.H.N., Bedford, C. et al. Alteration history of aluminum-rich rocks at Jezero crater, Mars. Commun Earth Environ 6, 935 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-025-02856-3</ref>

Suitupshowup: /* Timeline of activities and discoveries by Perseverance */ added new info about clays and ref

2026-02-04T17:58:45Z

Timeline of activities and discoveries by Perseverance: added new info about clays and ref

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:58, 4 February 2026
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	After a large impact created Jezero Crater hot magma moved and accumulated under the ground forming what are called intrusions. Some are called sills or lacoliths depending on their shapes. In these chambers, magma underwent a slow cooling. Scientists concluded that because the rocks they examined contained large crystals. Such crystals are produced by very slow cooling. Later erosion exposed these old chambers. The rocks with the large crystals was named the Seith Formation. Lava, then came into Jezero. The basalt that was formed was detected by Perseverance, and the formation was called the Maaza Formation. It also found carbonate minerals. These minerals meant that water came in and formed a lake. Just looking at satellite pictures of Jezero, one might guess that only minerals derived from sedimentary rocks would be found on the surface. However, several classes of rocks were formed that indicated a complex history. <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-perseverance-mars-rover-ready-to-roll-for-miles-in-years-ahead/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1-nasajpl&utm_content=daily20251218-3</ref> <ref>https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8264</ref> <ref>Kenneth H. Williford et al. ,Carbonated ultramafic igneous rocks in Jezero crater, Mars.Science0,eadu8264DOI:10.1126/science.adu8264</ref>		After a large impact created Jezero Crater hot magma moved and accumulated under the ground forming what are called intrusions. Some are called sills or lacoliths depending on their shapes. In these chambers, magma underwent a slow cooling. Scientists concluded that because the rocks they examined contained large crystals. Such crystals are produced by very slow cooling. Later erosion exposed these old chambers. The rocks with the large crystals was named the Seith Formation. Lava, then came into Jezero. The basalt that was formed was detected by Perseverance, and the formation was called the Maaza Formation. It also found carbonate minerals. These minerals meant that water came in and formed a lake. Just looking at satellite pictures of Jezero, one might guess that only minerals derived from sedimentary rocks would be found on the surface. However, several classes of rocks were formed that indicated a complex history. <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-perseverance-mars-rover-ready-to-roll-for-miles-in-years-ahead/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1-nasajpl&utm_content=daily20251218-3</ref> <ref>https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8264</ref> <ref>Kenneth H. Williford et al. ,Carbonated ultramafic igneous rocks in Jezero crater, Mars.Science0,eadu8264DOI:10.1126/science.adu8264</ref>

			A large team of scientists published a paper about how Perseverance has discovered thousands of bleached rocks that are loaded with a mineral difficult to form without long-term exposure to water. This means that adding fresh evidence that Mars was warmer, wetter and possibly rain-soaked billions of years ago.
			The bleached rocks are loaded with kaolinite, a soft, white, clay mineral that, on Earth, usually forms when water slowly dissolves and carries other elements from rock over thousands to millions of years. On Earth, it is most commonly found in warm, humid environments like rainforests. The researchers believe that these rocks could be evidence of an ancient warmer and wetter climate where there was rain falling for millions of years.
			Several thousand of these kaolinite-rich rocks ranging from small pebbles to large boulders scattered across the surface of Jezero Crater were discovered by Perseverance. They ranged in size from small pebbles to large boulders. They are aluminum-rich (30-45 wt% Al2O3) and are depleted of iron and magnesium.<ref>https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02856-3</ref> <ref>https://outlook.live.com/mail/0/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWg0Akr%2FaXi2mwEKimhNbcs0ITQAJCI9C2AAA</ref> <ref>Broz, A.P., Horgan, B.H.N., Bedford, C. et al. Alteration history of aluminum-rich rocks at Jezero crater, Mars. Commun Earth Environ 6, 935 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247-025-02856-3</ref>

Suitupshowup at 02:40, 12 January 2026

2026-01-12T02:40:51Z

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	Jezero crater was chosen as the landing site for the Mars 2020 rover mission.<ref>https://www.space.com/42486-mars-2020-rover-jezero-crater-landing-site.html</ref> <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?feature=7286&utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=nasajpl&utm_content=daily20181119-2</ref> <ref>https://www.sciencenews.org/article/nasa-mars-2020-rover-landing-site-ancient-alien-life-river-delta?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=latest-newsletter-v2</ref> Perseverance was the name picked for the rover; it landed right on target near the delta on February 18, 2021.<ref>https://mars.nasa.gov/news/8865/touchdown-nasas-mars-perseverance-rover-safely-lands-on-red-planet/</ref>		Jezero crater was chosen as the landing site for the Mars 2020 rover mission.<ref>https://www.space.com/42486-mars-2020-rover-jezero-crater-landing-site.html</ref> <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?feature=7286&utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=nasajpl&utm_content=daily20181119-2</ref> <ref>https://www.sciencenews.org/article/nasa-mars-2020-rover-landing-site-ancient-alien-life-river-delta?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=latest-newsletter-v2</ref> Perseverance was the name picked for the rover; it landed right on target near the delta on February 18, 2021.<ref>https://mars.nasa.gov/news/8865/touchdown-nasas-mars-perseverance-rover-safely-lands-on-red-planet/</ref>

	Jezero is an impact crater located at 18.855 N and 77.519 E (282.481 W) in the [[Syrtis Major quadrangle]].<ref>https://hirise.lpl.arizona.edu/PSP_007925_1990</ref> <ref>https://www.space.com/mars-2020-alien-life-hunt-microfossils.html?utm_source=Selligent&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=10118&utm_content=20191116_SDC_Newsletter+-+adhoc+&utm_term=2946561&m_i=LKHS2VBMPdPBKbRsJssJ6HqkTujMa1rGRCQddp5zz8Ss3OSL%2Bdjwc5LY%2BNjlmSR30MzcdNIUCuC1q%2Bfn0ySWT1TcOiknL7DjLx</ref> It is 47.52 Km in diameter.<ref>https://planetarynames.wr.usgs.gov/Feature/14300</ref> The crater was named after one of the towns with this name in Bosnia and Herzegovina.<ref>https://planetarynames.wr.usgs.gov/Feature/14300</ref>		Jezero is an impact crater located at 18.855 N and 77.519 E (282.481 W) in the [[Syrtis Major quadrangle]].<ref>https://hirise.lpl.arizona.edu/PSP_007925_1990</ref> <ref>https://www.space.com/mars-2020-alien-life-hunt-microfossils.html?utm_source=Selligent&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=10118&utm_content=20191116_SDC_Newsletter+-+adhoc+&utm_term=2946561&m_i=LKHS2VBMPdPBKbRsJssJ6HqkTujMa1rGRCQddp5zz8Ss3OSL%2Bdjwc5LY%2BNjlmSR30MzcdNIUCuC1q%2Bfn0ySWT1TcOiknL7DjLx</ref> It is 47.52 Km in diameter.<ref>https://planetarynames.wr.usgs.gov/Feature/14300</ref>

			The crater was named after one of the towns with this name in Bosnia and Herzegovina.<ref>https://planetarynames.wr.usgs.gov/Feature/14300</ref>

	<gallery class="center" widths="380px" heights="360px">		<gallery class="center" widths="380px" heights="360px">

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2026-01-11T14:40:09Z

Activities and discoveries by Perseverance

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:40, 11 January 2026
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	The Mars 2020 rover mission will be able to examine at least 5 types of rock, including clays and carbonates.<ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?feature=7539&utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=nasajpl&utm_content=daily-20191112-1</ref> These can preserve signs of ancient life. Additional materials probably washed in from the surroundings; therefore, we will be able to determine mineral information about the area around the crater.		The Mars 2020 rover mission will be able to examine at least 5 types of rock, including clays and carbonates.<ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?feature=7539&utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=nasajpl&utm_content=daily-20191112-1</ref> These can preserve signs of ancient life. Additional materials probably washed in from the surroundings; therefore, we will be able to determine mineral information about the area around the crater.

	==~~Activities~~ and discoveries by Perseverance==		==Timeline of activities and discoveries by Perseverance==

	On September 6, 2021 NASA announced that Perseverance rover collected its first sample of a Martian rock. Perseverance’s rotary-percussive drill on its robotic arm cored into a flat, briefcase-size rock. It has been called “Rochette.” The sample was slightly thicker than a pencil. It is now enclosed in an airtight titanium sample tube, making it available for retrieval in the future. NASA and ESA (European Space Agency) are planning future missions to return the rover’s sample tubes to Earth. This first sample was placed in sample tube serial number 266.<ref>https://mars.nasa.gov/news/9029/nasas-perseverance-rover-collects-first-mars-rock-sample/</ref>		On September 6, 2021 NASA announced that Perseverance rover collected its first sample of a Martian rock. Perseverance’s rotary-percussive drill on its robotic arm cored into a flat, briefcase-size rock. It has been called “Rochette.” The sample was slightly thicker than a pencil. It is now enclosed in an airtight titanium sample tube, making it available for retrieval in the future. NASA and ESA (European Space Agency) are planning future missions to return the rover’s sample tubes to Earth. This first sample was placed in sample tube serial number 266.<ref>https://mars.nasa.gov/news/9029/nasas-perseverance-rover-collects-first-mars-rock-sample/</ref>

Suitupshowup: /* Activities and discoveries by Perseverance */

2025-12-22T23:53:59Z

Activities and discoveries by Perseverance

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:53, 23 December 2025
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	A paper published December 2025 in Science by over 70 authors details what Perseverance discovered in the “Margin Unit,” a geologic area at the margin, or inner edge, of Jezero Crater. With the information collected, the scientists were able to come up with an understanding of the history of the crater. Other craters on Mars may have undergone some of the same processes.		A paper published December 2025 in Science by over 70 authors details what Perseverance discovered in the “Margin Unit,” a geologic area at the margin, or inner edge, of Jezero Crater. With the information collected, the scientists were able to come up with an understanding of the history of the crater. Other craters on Mars may have undergone some of the same processes.
	After a large impact created Jezero Crater hot magma moved and accumulated under the ground forming what are called intrusions. Some are called sills or lacoliths depending on their shapes. In these chambers, magma underwent a slow cooling. Scientists concluded that because the rocks they examined contained large crystals. Such crystals are produced by very slow cooling. Later erosion exposed these old chambers. Lava, then came into Jezero. The basalt that was formed was detected by Perseverance. It also found carbonate minerals. These minerals meant that water came in and formed a lake. Just looking at satellite pictures of Jezero, one might guess that only minerals derived from sedimentary rocks would be found on the surface. However, several classes of rocks were formed that indicated a complex history. <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-perseverance-mars-rover-ready-to-roll-for-miles-in-years-ahead/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1-nasajpl&utm_content=daily20251218-3</ref> <ref>https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8264</ref> <ref>Kenneth H. Williford et al. ,Carbonated ultramafic igneous rocks in Jezero crater, Mars.Science0,eadu8264DOI:10.1126/science.adu8264</ref>		After a large impact created Jezero Crater hot magma moved and accumulated under the ground forming what are called intrusions. Some are called sills or lacoliths depending on their shapes. In these chambers, magma underwent a slow cooling. Scientists concluded that because the rocks they examined contained large crystals. Such crystals are produced by very slow cooling. Later erosion exposed these old chambers. The rocks with the large crystals was named the Seith Formation. Lava, then came into Jezero. The basalt that was formed was detected by Perseverance, and the formation was called the Maaza Formation. It also found carbonate minerals. These minerals meant that water came in and formed a lake. Just looking at satellite pictures of Jezero, one might guess that only minerals derived from sedimentary rocks would be found on the surface. However, several classes of rocks were formed that indicated a complex history. <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-perseverance-mars-rover-ready-to-roll-for-miles-in-years-ahead/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1-nasajpl&utm_content=daily20251218-3</ref> <ref>https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8264</ref> <ref>Kenneth H. Williford et al. ,Carbonated ultramafic igneous rocks in Jezero crater, Mars.Science0,eadu8264DOI:10.1126/science.adu8264</ref>

Suitupshowup: /* Activities and discoveries by Perseverance */ added new info and ref

2025-12-22T23:48:19Z

Activities and discoveries by Perseverance: added new info and ref

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:48, 23 December 2025
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	Scientists were excited in September 2025 about the possible discovery of remains of life. Perseverance, our rover in Jezero crater, found chemicals that may have been created by anaerobic organisms in the past. Speckles in rocks contained the minerals vivianite, an iron phosphate, and greigite, an iron sulfide. What’s more both formed in close association with organic carbon. On Earth, vivianite frequently forms in lakes and coastal sediments where microbes use iron in their metabolism. They take iron (III) oxide use it, and then give off Ferrous iron (II) as a waste. That ferrous iron reacts with phosphate to form vivianite.<ref> https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720366067#:~:text=Vivianite%20is%20an%20important%20product,of%20vivianite%20in%20environmental%20field.</ref> <ref>Yuan, Q., et al. 2021. Biosynthesis of vivianite from microbial extracellular electron transfer and environmental application. Science of the total environment. Volume 762, 143076 </ref>		Scientists were excited in September 2025 about the possible discovery of remains of life. Perseverance, our rover in Jezero crater, found chemicals that may have been created by anaerobic organisms in the past. Speckles in rocks contained the minerals vivianite, an iron phosphate, and greigite, an iron sulfide. What’s more both formed in close association with organic carbon. On Earth, vivianite frequently forms in lakes and coastal sediments where microbes use iron in their metabolism. They take iron (III) oxide use it, and then give off Ferrous iron (II) as a waste. That ferrous iron reacts with phosphate to form vivianite.<ref> https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720366067#:~:text=Vivianite%20is%20an%20important%20product,of%20vivianite%20in%20environmental%20field.</ref> <ref>Yuan, Q., et al. 2021. Biosynthesis of vivianite from microbial extracellular electron transfer and environmental application. Science of the total environment. Volume 762, 143076 </ref>
	Greigite tends to form when microbes break down sulfate. They change sulfate to sulfide which unites with iron to produce greigite. <ref>Igarashi, K., et al. 2016. Natural synthesis of bioactive greigite by solid–gas reactions. journal/geochimica-et-cosmochimica-acta . Volume 191, 15 October 2016, Pages 47-57. </ref> When found together on Earth, these minerals and organic molecules are usually considered a sort of biosignature.<ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> <ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> There are possible, but not probable ways, that these minerals may have been formed without microbes.<ref> Hurowitz, J.A., Tice, M.M., Allwood, A.C. et al. Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332–340 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0</ref> They could have been made without biological reactions, including constant high temperatures, acidic conditions, and binding by organic compounds. But, the rocks in this place, called Bright Angel, do not show evidence that they experienced high temperatures or acidic conditions, and it is unknown whether the organic compounds present would’ve been capable of catalyzing the reaction at the expected low temperatures. This chemical evidence of past life appeared in some of the youngest sedimentary rocks the mission has examined. For a long time, we assumed signs of ancient life would be only found in older rock formations. This discovery may mean that Mars could have been habitable for a longer period or later in the planet’s history than previously thought. Older rocks also might hold signs of life that are simply harder to detect.<ref> https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-says-mars-rover-discovered-potential-biosignature-last-year/#:~:text=In%20higher%2Dresolution%20images%2C%20the,the%20reaction%20at%20low%20temperatures.</ref> The truth about these rocks may not be really known until the samples that were gathered are brought to the Earth.		Greigite tends to form when microbes break down sulfate. They change sulfate to sulfide which unites with iron to produce greigite. <ref>Igarashi, K., et al. 2016. Natural synthesis of bioactive greigite by solid–gas reactions. journal/geochimica-et-cosmochimica-acta . Volume 191, 15 October 2016, Pages 47-57. </ref> When found together on Earth, these minerals and organic molecules are usually considered a sort of biosignature.<ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> <ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> There are possible, but not probable ways, that these minerals may have been formed without microbes.<ref> Hurowitz, J.A., Tice, M.M., Allwood, A.C. et al. Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332–340 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0</ref> They could have been made without biological reactions, including constant high temperatures, acidic conditions, and binding by organic compounds. But, the rocks in this place, called Bright Angel, do not show evidence that they experienced high temperatures or acidic conditions, and it is unknown whether the organic compounds present would’ve been capable of catalyzing the reaction at the expected low temperatures. This chemical evidence of past life appeared in some of the youngest sedimentary rocks the mission has examined. For a long time, we assumed signs of ancient life would be only found in older rock formations. This discovery may mean that Mars could have been habitable for a longer period or later in the planet’s history than previously thought. Older rocks also might hold signs of life that are simply harder to detect.<ref> https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-says-mars-rover-discovered-potential-biosignature-last-year/#:~:text=In%20higher%2Dresolution%20images%2C%20the,the%20reaction%20at%20low%20temperatures.</ref> The truth about these rocks may not be really known until the samples that were gathered are brought to the Earth.

			A paper published December 2025 in Science by over 70 authors details what Perseverance discovered in the “Margin Unit,” a geologic area at the margin, or inner edge, of Jezero Crater. With the information collected, the scientists were able to come up with an understanding of the history of the crater. Other craters on Mars may have undergone some of the same processes.
			After a large impact created Jezero Crater hot magma moved and accumulated under the ground forming what are called intrusions. Some are called sills or lacoliths depending on their shapes. In these chambers, magma underwent a slow cooling. Scientists concluded that because the rocks they examined contained large crystals. Such crystals are produced by very slow cooling. Later erosion exposed these old chambers. Lava, then came into Jezero. The basalt that was formed was detected by Perseverance. It also found carbonate minerals. These minerals meant that water came in and formed a lake. Just looking at satellite pictures of Jezero, one might guess that only minerals derived from sedimentary rocks would be found on the surface. However, several classes of rocks were formed that indicated a complex history. <ref>https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-perseverance-mars-rover-ready-to-roll-for-miles-in-years-ahead/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1-nasajpl&utm_content=daily20251218-3</ref> <ref>https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8264</ref> <ref>Kenneth H. Williford et al. ,Carbonated ultramafic igneous rocks in Jezero crater, Mars.Science0,eadu8264DOI:10.1126/science.adu8264</ref>

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	Scientists were excited in September 2025 about the possible discovery of remains of life. Perseverance, our rover in Jezero crater, found chemicals that may have been created by anaerobic organisms in the past. Speckles in rocks contained the minerals vivianite, an iron phosphate, and greigite, an iron sulfide. What’s more both formed in close association with organic carbon. On Earth, vivianite frequently forms in lakes and coastal sediments where microbes use iron in their metabolism. They take iron (III) oxide use it, and then give off Ferrous iron (II) as a waste. That ferrous iron reacts with phosphate to form vivianite.<ref> https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720366067#:~:text=Vivianite%20is%20an%20important%20product,of%20vivianite%20in%20environmental%20field.</ref> <ref>Yuan, Q., et al. 2021. Biosynthesis of vivianite from microbial extracellular electron transfer and environmental application. Science of the total environment. Volume 762, 143076 </ref>		Scientists were excited in September 2025 about the possible discovery of remains of life. Perseverance, our rover in Jezero crater, found chemicals that may have been created by anaerobic organisms in the past. Speckles in rocks contained the minerals vivianite, an iron phosphate, and greigite, an iron sulfide. What’s more both formed in close association with organic carbon. On Earth, vivianite frequently forms in lakes and coastal sediments where microbes use iron in their metabolism. They take iron (III) oxide use it, and then give off Ferrous iron (II) as a waste. That ferrous iron reacts with phosphate to form vivianite.<ref> https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720366067#:~:text=Vivianite%20is%20an%20important%20product,of%20vivianite%20in%20environmental%20field.</ref> <ref>Yuan, Q., et al. 2021. Biosynthesis of vivianite from microbial extracellular electron transfer and environmental application. Science of the total environment. Volume 762, 143076 </ref>
	Greigite tends to form when microbes break down sulfate. They change sulfate to sulfide which unites with iron to produce greigite. <ref>Igarashi, K., et al. 2016. Natural synthesis of bioactive greigite by solid–gas reactions. journal/geochimica-et-cosmochimica-acta . Volume 191, 15 October 2016, Pages 47-57. </ref> When found together on Earth, these minerals and organic molecules are usually considered a sort of biosignature.<ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> <ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> There are possible, but not probable ways, that these minerals may have been formed without microbes.<ref> Hurowitz, J.A., Tice, M.M., Allwood, A.C. et al. Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332–340 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0</ref> They could have been made without biological reactions, including constant high temperatures, acidic conditions, and binding by organic compounds. But, the rocks in this place, called Bright Angel, do not show evidence that they experienced high temperatures or acidic conditions, and it is unknown whether the organic compounds present would’ve been capable of catalyzing the reaction at the expected low temperatures. This chemical evidence of past life appeared in some of the youngest sedimentary rocks the mission has examined. For a long time, we assumed signs of ancient life would be only found in older rock formations. Mars could have been habitable for a longer period or later in the planet’s history than previously thought. Older rocks also might hold signs of life that are simply harder to detect.<ref> https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-says-mars-rover-discovered-potential-biosignature-last-year/#:~:text=In%20higher%2Dresolution%20images%2C%20the,the%20reaction%20at%20low%20temperatures.</ref> The truth about these rocks may not be really known until the samples that were gathered are brought to the Earth.		Greigite tends to form when microbes break down sulfate. They change sulfate to sulfide which unites with iron to produce greigite. <ref>Igarashi, K., et al. 2016. Natural synthesis of bioactive greigite by solid–gas reactions. journal/geochimica-et-cosmochimica-acta . Volume 191, 15 October 2016, Pages 47-57. </ref> When found together on Earth, these minerals and organic molecules are usually considered a sort of biosignature.<ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> <ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> There are possible, but not probable ways, that these minerals may have been formed without microbes.<ref> Hurowitz, J.A., Tice, M.M., Allwood, A.C. et al. Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332–340 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0</ref> They could have been made without biological reactions, including constant high temperatures, acidic conditions, and binding by organic compounds. But, the rocks in this place, called Bright Angel, do not show evidence that they experienced high temperatures or acidic conditions, and it is unknown whether the organic compounds present would’ve been capable of catalyzing the reaction at the expected low temperatures. This chemical evidence of past life appeared in some of the youngest sedimentary rocks the mission has examined. For a long time, we assumed signs of ancient life would be only found in older rock formations. This discovery may mean that Mars could have been habitable for a longer period or later in the planet’s history than previously thought. Older rocks also might hold signs of life that are simply harder to detect.<ref> https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-says-mars-rover-discovered-potential-biosignature-last-year/#:~:text=In%20higher%2Dresolution%20images%2C%20the,the%20reaction%20at%20low%20temperatures.</ref> The truth about these rocks may not be really known until the samples that were gathered are brought to the Earth.

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	Scientists were excited in September 2025 about the possible discovery of remains of life. Perseverance, our rover in Jezero crater, found chemicals that may have been created by anaerobic organisms in the past. Speckles in rocks contained the minerals vivianite, an iron phosphate, and greigite, an iron sulfide. What’s more both formed in close association with organic carbon. On Earth, vivianite frequently forms in lakes and coastal sediments where microbes use iron in their metabolism. They take iron (III) oxide use it, and then give off Ferrous iron (II) as a waste. That ferrous iron reacts with phosphate to form vivianite.<ref> https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720366067#:~:text=Vivianite%20is%20an%20important%20product,of%20vivianite%20in%20environmental%20field.</ref> <ref>Yuan, Q., et al. 2021. Biosynthesis of vivianite from microbial extracellular electron transfer and environmental application. Science of the total environment. Volume 762, 143076 </ref>		Scientists were excited in September 2025 about the possible discovery of remains of life. Perseverance, our rover in Jezero crater, found chemicals that may have been created by anaerobic organisms in the past. Speckles in rocks contained the minerals vivianite, an iron phosphate, and greigite, an iron sulfide. What’s more both formed in close association with organic carbon. On Earth, vivianite frequently forms in lakes and coastal sediments where microbes use iron in their metabolism. They take iron (III) oxide use it, and then give off Ferrous iron (II) as a waste. That ferrous iron reacts with phosphate to form vivianite.<ref> https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720366067#:~:text=Vivianite%20is%20an%20important%20product,of%20vivianite%20in%20environmental%20field.</ref> <ref>Yuan, Q., et al. 2021. Biosynthesis of vivianite from microbial extracellular electron transfer and environmental application. Science of the total environment. Volume 762, 143076 </ref>
	Greigite tends to form when microbes break down sulfate. They change sulfate to sulfide which unites with iron to produce greigite. <ref>Igarashi, K., et al. 2016. Natural synthesis of bioactive greigite by solid–gas reactions. journal/geochimica-et-cosmochimica-acta . Volume 191, 15 October 2016, Pages 47-57. </ref> When found together on Earth, these minerals and organic molecules are usually considered a sort of biosignature.<ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> <ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> There are possible, but not probable ways that these minerals may have been formed.<ref> Hurowitz, J.A., Tice, M.M., Allwood, A.C. et al. Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332–340 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0</ref> They could have been made without biological reactions, including constant high temperatures, acidic conditions, and binding by organic compounds. But, the rocks in this place, called Bright Angel, do not show evidence that they experienced high temperatures or acidic conditions, and it is unknown whether the organic compounds present would’ve been capable of catalyzing the reaction at the expected low temperatures. This chemical evidence of past life appeared in some of the youngest sedimentary rocks the mission has examined. For a long time, we assumed signs of ancient life would be only found in older rock formations. Mars could have been habitable for a longer period or later in the planet’s history than previously thought. Older rocks also might hold signs of life that are simply harder to detect.<ref> https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-says-mars-rover-discovered-potential-biosignature-last-year/#:~:text=In%20higher%2Dresolution%20images%2C%20the,the%20reaction%20at%20low%20temperatures.</ref> The truth about these rocks may not be really known until the samples that were gathered are brought to the Earth.		Greigite tends to form when microbes break down sulfate. They change sulfate to sulfide which unites with iron to produce greigite. <ref>Igarashi, K., et al. 2016. Natural synthesis of bioactive greigite by solid–gas reactions. journal/geochimica-et-cosmochimica-acta . Volume 191, 15 October 2016, Pages 47-57. </ref> When found together on Earth, these minerals and organic molecules are usually considered a sort of biosignature.<ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> <ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> There are possible, but not probable ways, that these minerals may have been formed without microbes.<ref> Hurowitz, J.A., Tice, M.M., Allwood, A.C. et al. Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332–340 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0</ref> They could have been made without biological reactions, including constant high temperatures, acidic conditions, and binding by organic compounds. But, the rocks in this place, called Bright Angel, do not show evidence that they experienced high temperatures or acidic conditions, and it is unknown whether the organic compounds present would’ve been capable of catalyzing the reaction at the expected low temperatures. This chemical evidence of past life appeared in some of the youngest sedimentary rocks the mission has examined. For a long time, we assumed signs of ancient life would be only found in older rock formations. Mars could have been habitable for a longer period or later in the planet’s history than previously thought. Older rocks also might hold signs of life that are simply harder to detect.<ref> https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-says-mars-rover-discovered-potential-biosignature-last-year/#:~:text=In%20higher%2Dresolution%20images%2C%20the,the%20reaction%20at%20low%20temperatures.</ref> The truth about these rocks may not be really known until the samples that were gathered are brought to the Earth.

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← Older revision		Revision as of 16:54, 11 September 2025
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	Scientists were excited in September 2025 about the possible discovery of remains of life. Perseverance, our rover in Jezero crater, found chemicals that may have been created by anaerobic organisms in the past. Speckles in rocks contained the minerals vivianite, an iron phosphate, and greigite, an iron sulfide. What’s more both formed in close association with organic carbon. On Earth, vivianite frequently forms in lakes and coastal sediments where microbes use iron in their metabolism. They take iron (III) oxide use it, and then give off Ferrous iron (II) as a waste. That ferrous iron reacts with phosphate to form vivianite.<ref> https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720366067#:~:text=Vivianite%20is%20an%20important%20product,of%20vivianite%20in%20environmental%20field.</ref> <ref>Yuan, Q., et al. 2021. Biosynthesis of vivianite from microbial extracellular electron transfer and environmental application. Science of the total environment. Volume 762, 143076 </ref>		Scientists were excited in September 2025 about the possible discovery of remains of life. Perseverance, our rover in Jezero crater, found chemicals that may have been created by anaerobic organisms in the past. Speckles in rocks contained the minerals vivianite, an iron phosphate, and greigite, an iron sulfide. What’s more both formed in close association with organic carbon. On Earth, vivianite frequently forms in lakes and coastal sediments where microbes use iron in their metabolism. They take iron (III) oxide use it, and then give off Ferrous iron (II) as a waste. That ferrous iron reacts with phosphate to form vivianite.<ref> https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969720366067#:~:text=Vivianite%20is%20an%20important%20product,of%20vivianite%20in%20environmental%20field.</ref> <ref>Yuan, Q., et al. 2021. Biosynthesis of vivianite from microbial extracellular electron transfer and environmental application. Science of the total environment. Volume 762, 143076 </ref>
	Greigite tends to form when microbes break down sulfate. They change sulfate to sulfide which unites with iron to produce greigite. <ref>Igarashi, K., et al. 2016. Natural synthesis of bioactive greigite by solid–gas reactions. journal/geochimica-et-cosmochimica-acta . Volume 191, 15 October 2016, Pages 47-57. </ref> When found together on Earth, these minerals and organic molecules are usually considered a sort of biosignature.<ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> <ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> There are possible, but not probable ways that these minerals may have been formed.<ref> Hurowitz, J.A., Tice, M.M., Allwood, A.C. et al. Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332–340 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0</ref> They could have been made without biological reactions, including constant high temperatures, acidic conditions, and binding by organic compounds. But, the rocks in this place, called Bright Angel, do not show evidence that they experienced high temperatures or acidic conditions, and it is unknown whether the organic compounds present would’ve been capable of catalyzing the reaction at the expected low temperatures. This chemical evidence of past life appeared in some of the youngest sedimentary rocks the mission has examined. For a long time, we assumed signs of ancient life would be only found in older rock formations. Mars could have been habitable for a longer period or later in the planet’s history than previously thought. Older rocks also might hold signs of life that are simply harder to detect.<ref> https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-says-mars-rover-discovered-potential-biosignature-last-year/#:~:text=In%20higher%2Dresolution%20images%2C%20the,the%20reaction%20at%20low%20temperatures.</ref> The truth about these rocks may not be really known until the samples that were gathered are brought to the Earth.		Greigite tends to form when microbes break down sulfate. They change sulfate to sulfide which unites with iron to produce greigite. <ref>Igarashi, K., et al. 2016. Natural synthesis of bioactive greigite by solid–gas reactions. journal/geochimica-et-cosmochimica-acta . Volume 191, 15 October 2016, Pages 47-57. </ref> When found together on Earth, these minerals and organic molecules are usually considered a sort of biosignature.<ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> <ref>https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-there-life-on-mars-this-rock-may-hold-the-answer/#:~:text=In%20their%20Nature%20study%2C%20Hurowitz,also%20shows%20an%20abrasion%20patch.</ref> There are possible, but not probable ways that these minerals may have been formed.<ref> Hurowitz, J.A., Tice, M.M., Allwood, A.C. et al. Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332–340 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0</ref> They could have been made without biological reactions, including constant high temperatures, acidic conditions, and binding by organic compounds. But, the rocks in this place, called Bright Angel, do not show evidence that they experienced high temperatures or acidic conditions, and it is unknown whether the organic compounds present would’ve been capable of catalyzing the reaction at the expected low temperatures. This chemical evidence of past life appeared in some of the youngest sedimentary rocks the mission has examined. For a long time, we assumed signs of ancient life would be only found in older rock formations. Mars could have been habitable for a longer period or later in the planet’s history than previously thought. Older rocks also might hold signs of life that are simply harder to detect.<ref> https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-says-mars-rover-discovered-potential-biosignature-last-year/#:~:text=In%20higher%2Dresolution%20images%2C%20the,the%20reaction%20at%20low%20temperatures.</ref> The truth about these rocks may not be really known until the samples that were gathered are brought to the Earth.