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An ESA Robotic Package to Search for Life on MarsSimilarities in the early histories of Mars and Earth suggest that life may have arisen on Mars as it did on Earth. The early life forms on Mars were probably simple organisms, similar to terrestrial prokaryotes. In fact, given the early deterioration of the Martian climate, it is unlikely that life on Mars could ever have reached more sophisticated evolution. Based on the present knowledge of Mars, the possibility of extant life at the surface is small. However, given the adaptability of terrestrial prokaryotes under adverse conditions, it is not excluded. Any extant life is hypothesized to reside in the permafrost in a dormant state until "reanimated" by impact-caused hydrothermal activity. Using this rationale, a group of European scientists worked together to conceive a hypothetical strategy to search for life on Mars. A possible configuration for a lander/rover is outlined.
Document ID
20000110490
Acquisition Source
Johnson Space Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Westall, F.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Brack, A.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Clancy, P.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Hofmann, B.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Horneck, G.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Kurat, G.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Maxwell, J.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Ori, G. G.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Pillinger, C.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Raulin, F.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Date Acquired
August 19, 2013
Publication Date
July 1, 1999
Publication Information
Publication: The Fifth International Conference on Mars
Subject Category
Exobiology
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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