Ancient new form of Ice on Mars?

In summary, the conversation discusses the recent landing of the Phoenix on Mars to examine soil and ice, as well as the possibility of a new form of ice that has not been seen or thought of on Earth. The mention of a more sophisticated rover and the need for advanced technology to conduct further testing is also brought up.
  • #1
zankaon
166
0
The very recent Phoenix landed on Mars to examine soil and scrap ice etc. Just a prelude to a more sophisticated rover pending. But what if Mar's ice is a billion + yrs old, and hard as marble, perhaps? A new form of ice, not seen, nor conceived yet, on earth? Perhaps drilling; but not a core - too difficult perhaps. Rather perhaps just a fine drill; but large enough for a fiber optic probe to magnify and observe the wall of such cylindrical space, might be one possibility to the study of a new form of that exotic structure called ice.
 
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  • #2
could be possible just need to wait for the technology to allow these types of testing to be conducted.
 
  • #3


I find this possibility of a new form of ice on Mars to be very intriguing. It is certainly possible that the ice on Mars could be a billion years old and have a unique composition or structure that we have not yet encountered on Earth. In order to study this potential new form of ice, we would need to carefully design a method that would allow us to observe and analyze it without damaging it. Drilling with a fiber optic probe could be a viable option, as it would allow us to observe the walls of the cylindrical space without disrupting the ice itself. However, this would require significant planning and technological advancements in order to successfully execute. It is exciting to consider the potential discoveries that could be made through further exploration of Mars and its ice formations.
 

1. What is the ancient new form of ice on Mars?

The new form of ice on Mars, known as "layered ice," is a type of ice deposit that has been found in the mid-latitudes of the planet. It is formed by a combination of snowfall and dust accumulation over thousands of years.

2. How is this new form of ice different from other types of ice on Mars?

Unlike other types of ice on Mars, such as polar ice caps or water ice, layered ice is found in the middle latitudes and is believed to be much older. It also has a distinct layered structure, with alternating bands of ice and dust.

3. What does the discovery of this new form of ice tell us about the history of Mars?

The discovery of layered ice on Mars suggests that the planet's climate may have undergone significant changes over time. It also provides evidence of past snowfall and dust storms, which can help scientists better understand the planet's past climate patterns.

4. How was this new form of ice discovered?

The new form of ice was discovered using data from the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, which has been orbiting the planet since 2006. The orbiter's instruments, including the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE), were able to detect the unique signatures of layered ice on the surface of Mars.

5. What implications does this new discovery have for future missions to Mars?

The discovery of layered ice on Mars has significant implications for future missions to the planet. It provides potential sites for future exploration and could also serve as a source of water for human settlements. Additionally, studying this new form of ice can help us better understand the planet's past and present climate, which is crucial for planning future missions and potential colonization.

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