NASA finds life on Mars?

The big news today is that NASA believes it has discovered strong evidence for the existence of life on Mars. We're not talking past life here, either, but current, microbial life.

During a seven year study, three huge telescopes monitored the presence of large quantities of methane, in areas which are also believed to be water-rich. Sometimes, the amounts of methane detected were equal to quantities produced at some of Earth's most methane-rich locations. Scientists say this is the strongest evidence yet of possible life on Mars. But before anyone gets carried away, it's evidence, not proof. The methane could come from some kind of geological activity, such as a volcano.

But if there is life on Mars, where else might it be in the Universe? This story is potentially huge. Check out the media:

Methane find points to life on Mars

Telegraph article

Scientists detect methane on Mars

Phoenix Lander touches down on Mars

Yay! NASA's Phoenix Lander has successfully touched down on Mars. And I was there, with my camera, to capture the moment. Look:


Okay, so I lied about the last bit. I stole the above image from the NASA website. And not even NASA was there to take the pic - it's a simulation of the landing. I hope the craft continues to function as intended. So many previous Mars missions have ended in disaster, thanks to probes dying either at, or shortly after touchdown.

I wonder what it will find? Is the Face on Mars really a face? Or just a blob of rock?


NASA says the face is just a Martian butte. Note that was 'butte' not 'butt', just in case anyone thinks NASA has declared there is life on Mars, and that Martians have butts. I wonder if they will find any evidence of current or past life on Mars? If they do, it's more likely to be microbial, rather than a Martian Bigfoot.


Anyway, you can read more about the Mars Lander here, or on the official blog.