The Search for Life on Mars

The search for life on Mars involves exploring the planet for signs of past or present microbial life. Scientists examine Martian soil, rocks, and atmosphere using rovers and orbiters, looking for water and organic molecules—key ingredients for life. They analyze samples for chemical and biological clues, seeking signs of biological activity. Understanding Mars’s history helps determine if it once had conditions suitable for life. This research improves our knowledge of life's potential in the universe and guides future missions in the quest to find extraterrestrial life beyond Earth.