Since ancient times, Mars has attracted the attention of researchers. Science fiction writers have repeatedly described different forms of life on the Red Planet, suggesting the existence of developed civilizations there. By now it has become clear that in the current Martian conditions, intelligent life, comparable to that of the earth, is absent on this planet. But scientists continue to search for facts indicating the existence of the simplest life forms on Mars.
American researchers re-analyzed the data obtained in 1976 by the Viking station on Mars. The study of the planet's soil makes it possible with a high degree of probability to assert that bacteria live on Mars. The results of previous experiments carried out in the 70s of the last century have been misinterpreted, according to experts from the University of Southern California.
The program, in which Viking participated, included a series of experiments with the aim of detecting microorganisms in the Martian soil. A positive result was obtained, expressed, for example, in a temporary increase in the proportion of carbon dioxide released when soil samples are placed in a nutrient medium. Previously, this fact was preferred to be interpreted as a result of the action of geological rather than biological factors.
The new approach turned the Viking data into a set of numbers that was analyzed for complexity. The main idea of the new experiment was to look at the results from a numerical point of view, since living systems are more complex.
As a result, an exact correspondence was found between the numerical series related to the soil samples of Mars and the terrestrial datasets. A high degree of ordering of indicators, scientists believe, is characteristic of biological processes. Of course, only real observation of Martian bacteria under a microscope can finally put an end to this question.
Astronomers of the European Space Agency went even further, believing that life on Mars is possible not only in the form of primitive bacteria. In photographs taken with ESA devices, scientists examined the branched systems of underground tunnels, resulting from volcanic activity. Volcanoes that stopped erupting millions of years ago formed unique shelters where water could accumulate. It is in these havens that more advanced life forms should be sought, experts say. Unfortunately, it is not yet possible to check the calculations of scientists.
