A quiet Martian morning can still surprise researchers. That became clear when scientists reported unusual electrical activity above Jezero Crater. The discovery stirred hopes for deeper clues about Martian weather.
Could Mars really produce lightning today?
That question drove researchers studying NASA’s Perseverance rover. The rover has explored Jezero Crater since 2021. Its SuperCam instrument recorded audio and electromagnetic signals. These signals revealed tiny electrical discharges on Mars. Scientists described them as mini lightning events.
Why are these signals important for Mars?
A French team studied 28 hours of recordings. The data were collected over 2 Martian years. The researchers linked the discharges to dust devils and storm fronts. Dust devils form when hot air rises strongly. Their swirling motions can trigger electrical charges.
Lead author Dr Baptiste Chide spoke about the findings. He told Reuters the discharges represent a major discovery. He said they influence Martian chemistry and climate. He also linked them to future exploration plans. He and his team work at a French astrophysics institute. They believe Mars now joins other worlds with lightning. Those planets include Earth, Saturn and Jupiter.
Could these sounds confirm true Martian lightning?
Some scientists say more proof is required. Particle physicist Dr Daniel Pritchard wrote about this. He addressed the study in the journal Nature. He said the evidence is persuasive but incomplete. The discharges were recorded but never seen. He said some doubt will continue among experts. He also noted the debate may last years.
Could cameras or new instruments settle this?
Researchers hope later missions might help. They want more sensitive tools on future rovers. They also hope to capture visual flashes directly. Have other clues hinted at ancient Martian life? In September scientists reported unusual Mars rocks. These rocks held markings like leopard spots. Others looked like poppy seeds on the surface. The minerals came from chemical reactions. Some reactions could involve ancient microbes. NASA said the features may show past life. Natural geology remains another possible explanation.
Why did Perseverance study Jezero Crater first?
The crater once held flowing water. It shows signs of an ancient river delta. Billions of years ago Mars had a thick atmosphere. Water may have remained stable at the surface. These conditions make Jezero important for research today.
Now Mars stands cold, dry and dusty. Yet its past still guides new questions. Researchers hope future missions may answer them soon.
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