Geology Reference
In-Depth Information
Geology is no longer confined to Earth. Advances in scientific understanding of the
earth's planetary systems have helped scientists apply that understanding to other
planets. Fields of current research include the search for extraterrestrial, or alien, life.
When
astrogeologists
— planetary geologists — look at the surface of Mars, they see fea-
tures that remind them of features on earth created by running water. While there is no
water on Mars's surface now, these features suggest that large amounts of water once
flowed across the surface, presumably originating from underground sources on the
planet.
In 2010, the exploratory Mars rovers collected sediment samples and other evidence
that suggest there may be water not far below the surface of Mars.
Why does it matter if there is water on Mars (or any other planet)? One reason is that
life on earth requires water, which means if there is water on another planet, there may
be life. Another reason scientists are interested in extraterrestrial water is that water
will be necessary for any future human settlements on Mars. It may sound like a movie
plot, but it's real-life science!
