Top 10 shocking scientific discoveries that hint at life on Mars

Ferric Hydroxysulfate Discovery: Researchers identified a new mineral, ferric hydroxysulfate, on the surface of Mars with the help of spectroscopy. The mineral precipitates in water-rich conditions and might be an indicator of ancient life. It was identified by the SETI Institute and published in Nature Communications on August 5, 2025. (Image: Canva)

Ancient Microbial Life: NASA's Perseverance rover discovered a rock sample, "Cheyava Falls," with textures and chemical signatures indicative of ancient microbial life. The rock has minerals such as vivianite and greigite, which are frequently associated with microbial activity. (Image: NASA)

Organic Molecules: The Curiosity rover found organic molecules in sedimentary rocks on Mars, which are the building blocks of life. This was discovered in 2018 and implies that Mars might have had the conditions to harbor life. (Image: NASA)

Methane Detection: NASA's Curiosity rover found seasonal changes in the levels of methane on Mars, which may be produced by microbes. Alternatively, geological processes could be at play. (Image: NASA)

Water on Mars: Scientists believe that Mars had a large ocean in the past, which could have supported life. The discovery of underground ice and evidence of ancient riverbeds and lakes also supports the possibility of life. (Image: NASA)

Biosignatures in Rocks: The Perseverance rover found rocks with features consistent with possible ancient microbial activity. The rocks contain organic carbon and minerals like vivianite and greigite. (Image: NASA)

Subglacial Lake: Scientists discovered a subglacial lake on Mars, which could provide a habitable environment for microorganisms. (Image: Canva)

Potential for Photosynthesis: Researchers found that photosynthesis could occur within dusty ice exposed in Martian mid-latitudes, providing a possible habitat for life. (Image: Canva)

Ancient River Delta: NASA's Perseverance rover searched an ancient river delta in Jezero Crater, which might have supported life previously. (Image: NASA)

Martian Meteorites: Certain Martian meteorites on Earth have records of ancient water and potential biosignatures, which indicate that Mars could have had life in the past (Image: NASA)