Noachian

The Noachian refers to a specific period in Mars' ancient history, roughly 4.1 to 3.7 billion years ago. During this time, the planet experienced heavy rainfall, volcanic activity, and a wetter, warmer climate, which created conditions suitable for liquid water on the surface. These environmental conditions likely supported the development of early, possibly microbial, life. The Noachian is crucial for understanding Mars' geological past and the planet's potential to have harbored life, as it marks a phase when the planet's surface was much more Earth-like than it is today.