Water Reservoirs on Mars
Recent research indicates the presence of a liquid water reservoir located deep within Mars' rocky outer crust. This discovery arises from an in-depth analysis of data collected by NASA's Mars Insight Lander, which has been operational since its deployment to the planet in 2018.
The Insight Lander is equipped with a seismometer that has recorded seismic activity, known as Mars quakes, over four years. By studying the vibrations and movements within the Martian crust, scientists have identified “seismic signals” that suggest liquid water exists beneath the surface. This finding is significant as it marks the first detection of liquid water on Mars, complementing existing evidence of frozen water at the poles and vapor in the atmosphere.
The research has been documented in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The mission of Insights officially concluded in December 2022, after successfully monitoring quakes and geological activity, recording over 1,319 seismic events.
Utilizing techniques similar to those employed in geophysical explorations on Earth for locating water, oil, and gas, scientists have estimated the underground reservoirs to be positioned at depths ranging from six to twelve miles (10 to 20 km). Prof. Michael Manga of the University of California, Berkeley, who contributed to this research, emphasized the critical role water plays in a planet’s evolution.
The lead researcher, Dr. Vashan Wright from UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, mentioned that comprehending the Martian water cycle is essential for understanding the planet's climatic and geological history. This discovery raises a compelling question regarding the fate of Martian water, particularly since many surface features indicate a history of rivers and lakes.
For nearly three billion years, Mars has transitioned into a desert environment. The loss of water to space due to atmospheric decline is one factor, yet underground sources might still maintain significant volumes. The research suggests that if similar reservoirs are widespread across Mars, there may be enough liquid water to cover the entire surface with a layer exceeding half a mile in depth.
The location of these underground reservoirs poses challenges for the ambitious plans concerning Mars colonization by private ventures. Prof. Manga highlights that tapping into this water would involve drilling deep into the Martian crust, estimated to be 10-20 km down, presenting significant engineering challenges even for established entities.
This discovery also fortifies the premise that habitable environments may exist on Mars, particularly in its subsurface regions. Prof. Manga states unequivocally, “Without liquid water, you don't have life.” This suggests that the prospect for finding evidence of life on Mars may shift focus towards these deep-seated reservoirs, indicating a potential for sustaining life.
In summary, water on Mars is not just a relic of the planet's past but might be a vital component in understanding its present and future. The Mars Insight Lander's contributions have not only uncovered a significant resource but have also provided new insights into the possibility of life beyond Earth. The implications of these findings are vast, as they could influence future explorations and the narrative surrounding the Red Planet's geological and climatic evolution.