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Manganese observed in Mars by NASA’s Curiosity
Why in the news?
Scientists recently discovered elevated manganese levels in lakebed rocks within Gale Crater on Mars, indicating the presence of an ancient, habitable lake.
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- Manganese oxide formation is rare on Mars due to its surface conditions.
- On Earth, manganese oxide deposits are common, facilitated by high atmospheric oxygen from photosynthesis and microbial catalysis of oxidation reactions.
- The ancient rocks from Gale Crater provide insight into a habitable environment resembles modern Earth locations.
About Manganese
- Manganese is a hard, brittle, silvery-grey metal and resembles iron.
- It is a key component of several enzymes and essential for processes like photosynthesis, bone development, and wound healing in humans.
- Manganese in oxidised forms on other planets suggests the presence of oxygen-rich environments (life sustaining).
- It can serve as biosignatures, indicating potential biological activity and marking habitable locations.
NASA Curiosity Mission
- NASA Curiosity Mission, officially named as the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) was launched in November 2011 and landed in August 2012.
- Its primary mission is to determine whether Mars was ever capable of supporting microbial life.
- It investigates the planet’s climate and geology and assesses natural resources and hazards for future human missions.