As humankind intensifies exploration of the possibility of establishing habitats on Mars, a recent scientific breakthrough in a remote Indian village may have brought that vision closer to reality.
Researchers from the Space Applications Centre (SAC) in Ahmedabad, Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), and the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences in Lucknow have confirmed the presence of jarosite in Gujarat’s Mata no Madh village, located nearly 100 km west of Bhuj.
This site is perceived as a terrestrial test bed for Mars missions in future, including the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) upcoming Mangalyaan-2 project.
It’s claimed that the mineral was formed around 55 million years ago.
According to the researchers, this suggests that the region once experienced environmental and chemical conditions similar to those on ancient Mars.
Researchers told a national daily that the findings could aid tests for rover movement, drilling equipment, geochemistry analysis, and instrument calibration. These are all significant components of Mars exploration.
Additionally, researchers believe that the discovery also offers a terrestrial model for astrobiology, mineral detection, and interplanetary mission planning.
For the uninitiated, Jarosite, a yellow mineral rich in iron and sulphates, is significant because it forms in the presence of water. On Earth, it is rare. It has been linked to past volcanic activity. Experts claim that during intense volcanism in the region millions of years ago, volcanic ash containing sulphur likely interacted with marine water. And that may have led to the formation of jarosite.
It was first traced on Mars in 2004, claimed reports. NASA’s rover reportedly found it at the Meridiani Planum landing site. Since then, it has been seen at several other locations on Mars. This indicates that the mineral may be widespread on the planet.
On Earth, jarosite has also been found in other places. These include Mexico, Canada, Japan, Spain, and the US. In India, it was also detected near the Varkala cliffs in Kerala.
However, scientists say Mata no Madh is more suitable for Mars-like studies. Unlike Varkala, which is a busy tourist spot, Mata no Madh is remote and geologically unique.
The clay in Mata no Madh contains fine jarosite deposits. It expands on contact with water and bears a striking resemblance to Martian soils, researchers said.
Laboratory tests confirmed that this combination of sulphates and clays bears striking resemblance to what has been found on Mars.
How does the discovery help in the search for life on Mars? Jarosite can capture organic molecules, which makes them valuable in studying whether there was life on Mars.
A study on how jarosite formed and is preserved on Earth could inform strategies for detecting biosignatures on the red planet.
Given its significance, scientists have urged that the Mata no Madh site be protected. The area is currently waterlogged and faces risks from coal mining activities nearby.
Researchers believe the site should be formally declared a part of India’s planetary geo-heritage. They cited its rare mineral composition and value for future space exploration efforts.
Given India’s expanding space ambitions, Matanomadh could soon become a training ground for the next generation of planetary missions.
Also Read: PM Modi Says Nation’s Mothers Insulted; Hits Back At Congress-RJD https://www.vibesofindia.com/pm-modi-says-nations-mothers-insulted-hits-back-at-congress-rjd/
