In a joint study, Russian and Chinese experts have found evidence that an ocean once existed on the surface of Mars. The study was conducted based on data collected by the Chinese Mars rover "Zhurong". This device has been operating on the surface of Mars since 2021 in the southern part of the Utopia Planitia.
It is assumed that an ancient ocean was once located in this part. The study by scientists presents new arguments in favor of its existence. The results of studies conducted using remote sensing in the landing area of "Zhurong" indicate the possible presence of a continuous layer of water or ice.
The age of these landform features correlates with previous estimates of the age of the Martian ocean. According to researchers, the ocean on the planet formed approximately 3.68 billion years ago and froze 3.42 billion years ago.
Measurements taken by sensors on board the rover cannot serve as direct evidence of the existence of an ancient ocean. However, they do not contradict this theory.
Earlier, the Kazachok landing module was returned to Russia, which was to be used as part of the second stage of the Russian-European mission to explore Mars. The main task was to find signs of life or its traces in the past on the planet.
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