Core Insights - The recent discovery by the Zhurong rover on Mars has sparked renewed interest in the possibility of life on the planet, revealing sedimentary layers that resemble those formed in water environments on Earth [3][5][7] Group 1: Geological Findings - The Zhurong rover conducted a "CT scan" of the southern Utopia Planitia, uncovering sedimentary layers that are structured like a "secret diary" hidden underground, indicating significant water activity on Mars approximately 750 million years ago [3][7] - This discovery extends the timeline of Mars' habitable conditions, suggesting that the planet may have had a longer "youth" than previously thought [3][7] Group 2: Historical Context of Mars Exploration - The search for Martian life has a long history, dating back to 1877 when astronomers mistakenly believed they saw "canals" on Mars, igniting romantic notions of Martian civilization [5] - In 1996, NASA found potential organic materials in a Martian meteorite, hinting at ancient microbial life, although this finding remains controversial [5] Group 3: Evidence of Water Activity - Since the 21st century, various countries have confirmed evidence of past water activity on Mars, including the presence of water ice and ancient riverbeds, bolstering the idea that Mars may have once been a blue planet capable of supporting life [7][9] - Recent findings from NASA's Perseverance rover have identified potential biosignatures in ancient riverbeds, suggesting that organic carbon and iron oxides could have provided energy for ancient microbial life [9] Group 4: Theoretical Implications of Martian Life - If life ever existed on Mars, it likely remained at a primitive stage, similar to early Earth bacteria, due to the planet's loss of its magnetic field and subsequent atmospheric erosion [11] - The ongoing exploration of Mars, including China's upcoming Tianwen-3 mission, aims to further investigate the mysteries surrounding potential Martian life [11]