A new study revealed that the biotic procedure that led to the formation of the rock on Ladakh could help in understanding how life can exist in space or extreme environments is possible. This revelation will provide great insights into astrobiology as well as for planning future space missions.
According to the study, the formation of the rock varnish is attributed to the presence of magnetotactic bacteria found within the varnish layers. These bacteria produce magnetic particles, which, when fossilized, are known as magnetofossils.
Ladakh which is a cold region and has extreme climate conditions, less availability of water and high UV radiation make it a great analogue for Martian studies.
Researchers from Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow (BSIP), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) did the research and found the similarities between the rock in Ladakh and in the samples of Mars during the exploration of the Perseverance rover.
They did their research after collecting samples of rock varnish from Ladakh and did an analysis that was led by Dr. Amritpal Singh Chaddha and Dr Anupam Sharma at BSIP.
The team used a Sophisticated Analytical Instrumentation Facility (SAIF) established by DST, to identify the formation of the rock and magnetofossils.
It was revealed that the rock varnish has a high concentration of oxidized manganese (Mn4+) and a carboxylic acid, this study was published in Planetary and Space Science, which revealed the presence of magnetic minerals in the rock varnish of Ladakh.
Doing this research and detecting biotic signatures in rock varnish, can contribute to enhancing scientists' ability to pinpoint potential biosignatures on Mars and other celestial bodies.
Rock varnish, a thin layer of minerals deposited on rock surfaces, often contains microbial life and organic compounds, making it a valuable indicator of past and present life.
This knowledge is pivotal for planning future space missions by ISRO and other space agencies. Understanding where to look for signs of life can significantly influence mission design, targeting areas most likely to harbour life.
In conclusion, the study of rock varnish is a key component in the broader quest to uncover life beyond Earth, guiding both current and future explorations across the solar system.
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