Mars Rock Reveals Building-Block Molecules Suggesting Ancient Life-Friendly Chemistry
NASA reports that seven of 21 carbon-containing organic molecules identified in a rock sample drilled by the Curiosity rover in 2020 at Mount Sharp were detected on Mars for the first time, including a nitrogen heterocycle that could be a precursor to DNA and RNA. While scientists can’t tell if the molecules arose from biological or geological processes, the find strengthens the case that ancient Mars had the right chemistry to support life.