Mars

NASA's Curiosity rover faced an unexpected challenge during a recent sampling attempt on the Martian surface.

April 28, 2026 Reported by AI

NASA's Curiosity rover has discovered a variety of organic molecules on Mars, including compounds similar to DNA building blocks. The findings, from an innovative chemical experiment, suggest the planet's surface can preserve ancient organics potentially billions of years old. Scientists emphasize that while promising, the molecules do not confirm past life.

A European research team has developed a system of three robots to autonomously explore lava tunnels on the Moon and Mars, which could serve as protected bases for astronauts. The technology was tested successfully in volcanic caves on Lanzarote, Spain, demonstrating its potential for mapping underground environments. This mission concept aims to shield explorers from radiation and meteorite impacts.

January 27, 2026 Reported by AI

NASA's Perseverance rover has discovered bright white rocks made of kaolinite clay in Jezero Crater, suggesting Mars once experienced millions of years of rainfall in warm, humid conditions. These aluminum-rich clays, similar to those formed in Earth's tropical rainforests, imply the planet had abundant water and potentially habitable environments long ago. The scattered rocks puzzle scientists about their origins, possibly from floods or impacts.