Is There Evidence of Life on Mars?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the potential for life on Mars, particularly in light of recent findings such as methane emissions and extremophiles on Earth. While the evidence remains speculative, it encourages scientists to explore non-biological processes that could explain these gases. The conversation highlights the impact of Mars on Earth geologists, prompting them to investigate geological formations and phenomena that may mirror Martian characteristics. The ongoing research and speculation about Mars not only fuels interest in extraterrestrial life but also enhances understanding of Earth's own geological processes. Overall, the exploration of Mars continues to inspire scientific inquiry and debate.
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Chronos said:
http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/mars_life_050216.html

thats a good link, thanks!
I noticed it had a link to an article about "extremophiles" of different types
http://www.livescience.com/animalworld/050207_extremophiles.html

and also a link to a news item about evidence of methane on Mars

It doesn't make me believe or disbelieve anything
about the liklihood of finding microbic life on Mars
but it is surely thought-provoking
 
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Although the conclusion is still speculation, I love how it stimulates scientists to study similar findings on Earth. If no non-biological processes on Earth are found to create these gasses, it sure strengthens the life on Mars probability.
 
tony873004 said:
... I love how it stimulates scientists to study similar findings on Earth. ...

Along those lines, I saw some pretty pics of "star" sand-dunes which have stimulated people to speculate as to mechanisms that might have formed them and to look for similar dunes on Earth.
In case anyone is curious:
http://www.xtl-ak.com/marstrees.html
here's more geological speculation (about formation of Valle Marineris)
http://www.marsdaily.com/news/marsexpress-05d.html

mars seems to have "Marsmerized" a bunch of Earth geologists both pro and wild-type
and stimulated them to think, as you say
 
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