New research suggests Mars is red because of the mineral ferrihydrite, suggesting the planet once had more water.
Scientists have discovered a new element that could explain why Mars has a distinctive red color, replacing the previously popular hypothesis about the formation of the dust layer covering the planet's surface.
Scientists previously believed that the red dust on Mars was made of hematite, an iron-rich mineral formed through a dry oxidation process that took place over billions of years. However, new research published in the journal Nature Communications suggests that ferrihydrite, a water-containing iron oxide, may be the real culprit.
Using data from Mars orbiters and rovers such as the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Mars Express and Trace Gas Orbiter , and NASA’s Curiosity , Pathfinder , and Opportunity , scientists have grown samples of Martian dust in the lab. The analysis shows that ferrihydrite is responsible for Mars’ red color, and importantly, the mineral only forms in the presence of water.
A replica of Martian dust, consisting of a mixture of ferrihydrite and basalt, created in the lab. (Photo: A. Valantinas)
This means that Mars may have undergone a “rusting” process earlier than scientists previously thought. The discovery also strengthens the hypothesis that in the past, the planet had suitable conditions for liquid water to exist on its surface - an important factor for the development of life.
Scientists are now trying to determine exactly when ferrihydrite formed and where the mineral originated before it was scattered across the planet in dust storms. These questions could be answered if samples of Martian rock and dust collected by Perseverance are returned to Earth through the NASA/ESA Mars Sample Return program, which is expected to be completed in the early 2030s.
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