Ancient Life on Mars

In the ancient lake bed here we can see evidence of the forming lake: a canyon cutting through the crater rim was carved by a river. As the water entered the lake it precipitated sand and mud which was carried to form the fan-shaped delta. Our white line shows is a path the Rover might follow in its first two years (‘the Prime Mission’) During this period we use the Rover’s scientific instruments to analyze the lake sediments. After we have explored the delta we hope to investigate the shoreline of the former lake. To get there we have to traverse around a sea of ‘modern’ sand dunes. From this perspective you can see former shorelines curving around a headland. We can almost picture waves in Lake Jezero beating on a sandy beach! Finally we will press on to the crater rim. Jezero a crater formed when a large object collided with Mars. Excavating rocks from deep inside the Martian crust and exposing them in the river. A gift - ready for us to study! These rocks would have been extremely hot shortly after the impact and may have hosted hot springs. Deposits from any such springs would be another target in our search for possible ancient life on Mars!