Scientists identify seven new organic molecules in Martian rock sample
The Curiosity rover's analysis of a 2020 rock sample revealed the most diverse collection of carbon-containing molecules found on Mars.
Scientists have identified 21 carbon-containing molecules within a Martian rock sample, including seven that have never been detected on the planet before, according to a report by The Times of India. The sample, nicknamed Mary Anning 3, was drilled by the Curiosity rover in October 2020 from Mount Sharp.
The rock is clay-rich, which Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory says is effective at preserving organic compounds. Researchers noted that while the molecules show ancient Mars had the chemistry to support life, they do not know if biological or geological processes created them.
One discovery is a nitrogen heterocycle, a ring of carbon atoms containing nitrogen. Amy Williams of the University of Florida, the lead author of the paper in Nature Communications, said the detection is "pretty profound" as such structures can be chemical precursors to more complex molecules.
The analysis also identified benzothiophene, a molecule containing carbon and sulphur. To detect these, the rover used a powerful solution called tetramethylammonium hydroxide in its Sample Analysis at Mars laboratory. This was the first time the laboratory used one of its two available cups of the solvent.
Ashwin Vasavada, the project scientist at Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, said dozens of scientists and engineers were required to locate the site and drill the sample. Charles Malespin, the instrument’s principal investigator at Nasa Goddard, said performing this chemistry on Mars was a feat.
The findings prepare teams for future missions, including the European Space Agency’s Rosalind Franklin rover and the Dragonfly rotorcraft, which will explore Saturn’s moon Titan.