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Essay on Life on Martian Meteorites

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ABSTRACT In this paper, the great dispute of whether or not there is real evidence of life on martian meteorites is discussed. Findings of carbon globules, nanocrystal magnetites, and rod-shaped objects on ALH84001, Nakhla and Yamata 593 suggest biogenic processes once occurred on Mars. Furthermore, past atmospheric conditions and a current abundance of methane gas build more justification to martian life. Many of these discoveries are accused of being accounted for by either terrestrial contamination or abiotic processes, but composition analysis and model experiments show that contamination cannot be held fully responsible. It is concluded that martian meteorites do provide insight and valid evidence for extraterrestrial life. …show more content…

1996). Confirmation of these biological artefacts is important as it would finally resolve the debate of the century. The breakthrough of fossilized nanobacteria on martian meteorites was the first real evidence supporting life beyond our planet, escalating the already controversial subject. It has allowed fantasies of aliens and U. F. O.’s to essentially become a reality. Although many continue to disagree with this statement and accuse findings to be irrelevant, further research on the composition Mars and its meteorites have provided justice to extraterrestrial life.
MARS AND ITS ATMOSPHERE Before even considering extraterrestrial life in the first place, the necessary elements must be available. As mentioned above, the red planet was once warmer and wetter, providing ideal conditions for life. The availability of water is of utmost importance when regarding life. On Mars’ surface, the existence of carved channel networks provides evidence for possible floods in the past (Baker 2001). In addition, the presence of “contraction-crack polygons” cover great distances over the martian landscape and mimic terrestrial ice-wedge terrains of permafrost regions (Baker, V. R. 2001). It is also uncratered, signifying potential water associated activities in the recent past. The atmosphere on Mars used to be much thicker than it is presently. The extensive

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