NASA's new satellite images reveal frozen 'kidney beans' on Mars, which may hold clues to water and life

NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) recently captured an intriguing image of Mars' northern hemisphere, where frozen sand dunes appear like kidney beans. While they may look edible, these formations are actually layers of frost on Martian dunes. The image was taken in September 2022 and released in December 2024.

Frozen Dunes Freeze in Time

The dunes in the photo are motionless. On Earth, dunes are constantly shifting, with winds moving sand grains. However, the carbon dioxide frost on Mars' dunes prevents this movement. During Mars' northern winter, the frost forms a shield, halting wind from scooping up sand. This explains why the dunes seem frozen in place until spring.

Scientists are studying frost-covered dunes to learn about Mars' past. While the frost is made of carbon dioxide, not water, it holds clues to the planet's history. Mars' tilt causes carbon dioxide ice to turn into gas over time. This could have thickened the atmosphere, possibly allowing liquid water to exist long enough to support life.