Biology
Scientific paper
Mar 2010
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2010p%26ss...58..592l&link_type=abstract
Planetary and Space Science, Volume 58, Issue 4, p. 592-598.
Biology
4
Scientific paper
Lava tubes and basaltic caves are common features in volcanic terrains on Earth. Lava tubes and cave-like features have also been identified on Mars based on orbital imagery and remote-sensing data. Caves are unique environments where both secondary mineral precipitation and microbial growth are enhanced by stable physico-chemical conditions. Thus, they represent excellent locations where traces of microbial life, or biosignatures, are formed and preserved in minerals. By analogy with terrestrial caves, caves on Mars may contain a record of secondary mineralization that would inform us on past aqueous activity. They may also represent the best locations to search for biosignatures. The study of caves on Earth can be used to test hypotheses and better understand biogeochemical processes, and the signatures that these processes leave in mineral deposits. Caves may also serve as test beds for the development of exploration strategies and novel technologies for future missions to Mars. Here we review recent evidence for the presence of caves or lava tubes on Mars, as well as the geomicrobiology of lava tubes and basaltic caves on Earth. We also propose future lines of investigation, including exploration strategies and relevant technologies.
Datta Saugata
Leveille Richard J.
No associations
LandOfFree
Lava tubes and basaltic caves as astrobiological targets on Earth and Mars: A review does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Lava tubes and basaltic caves as astrobiological targets on Earth and Mars: A review, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Lava tubes and basaltic caves as astrobiological targets on Earth and Mars: A review will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1224638