Magnesite

Magnesite (MgCO3) is a chemical compound of Magnesium and Carbon that is present on Mars. It was identified in Martian dust in Gusev Crater by the Spirit rover.

• Magnesite can be refined into magnesium oxide, a refractory material used in kiln bricks, and the oxide can be further refined into Magnesium, through electrolysis or the Pidgeon process.
• Magnesium is the third most used metal after steel and aluminum. It will be required for a self sustaining settlement on Mars. It can be used as an alloy in the production of various metals.