Trace gases in the atmosphere of Mars - An indicator of microbial lifeThe detection of certain trace gases in the atmosphere of Mars would indicate the presence of microbial life on the surface. Candidate biogenic gases include CH4, NH3, N2O, and several reduced sulfur species. Chemical thermodynamic equilibrium and photochemical calculations preclude the presence of these gases in any measurable concentrations in the atmosphere of Mars in the absence of biogenic production. A search for these gases utilizing either high-resolution (spectral and spatial) spectroscopy from a Mars orbiter, such as the Mars Observer orbiter, and/or in situ measurements from a Mars lander or rover is proposed.
Document ID
19900029491
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Levine, Joel S. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Rinsland, Curtis P. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Boston, Penelope J. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Cofer, Wesley R., III (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Chameides, William L. (Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, United States)