NASA Perseverance rover finds early Mars rocks show three water episodes
NASA scientists analyzing samples from the Jezero Crater Margin Unit reported that early Mars rocks recorded at least three separate interactions with water.
Unexpected rock composition found
Mission researchers expected to find sedimentary layers along the ancient lake shoreline. Instead, the rover team identified igneous rock formed from magma or volcanic activity. These crystals preserved details about the precise moment they formed.
Complex water history recorded
The mineral crystals within the stones kept a record of chemical changes over time. Analysis indicates the rocks experienced contact with liquid on at least three distinct occasions. Each encounter further altered their appearance and chemistry before publication in Communications Earth & Environment.
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