一场生命起源“侦探剧”在火星上演

Core Insights - The research focuses on Jezero Crater on Mars, which was once a lake, and aims to uncover clues about ancient Martian life [1] - NASA's Perseverance rover has confirmed the presence of a delta formed by a river, indicating a history of water flow in the area [1] - A study published in Nature highlights the discovery of a rock formation called "Bright Angels," which contains minerals that may serve as potential biosignatures [1][2] Group 1 - The minerals found in the "Bright Angels" formation are rich in iron phosphate and iron sulfide, and their distribution aligns closely with organic carbon, suggesting a possible link to past biological activity [1][2] - These minerals formed in a low-temperature environment post-sedimentation, indicating they were likely created through chemical reactions involving water rather than volcanic activity [2] - The coexistence of iron phosphate and organic carbon is often associated with microbial metabolism on Earth, hinting at the potential for past life on Mars [2] Group 2 - Scientists remain cautious, considering that the minerals could also be products of purely chemical reactions, necessitating further investigation into both biological and non-biological origins [2] - Perseverance has collected multiple core samples from the area, which are sealed in titanium tubes for future analysis on Earth, where advanced laboratory techniques may reveal more definitive evidence of life [2] - The findings raise profound questions about the nature of life in the universe, pondering whether it is a mere chemical accident or an inevitable occurrence [2]