Phoenix finds Earth-like soil
Posted: Sat, Jun 28, 2008, 9:57 AM ET (1357 GMT)
The first chemical analysis of the soil at the landing site for NASA's Phoenix Mars Lander has revealed conditions not dissimilar to those of part of Antarctica, scientists said this week. The analysis, performed by Phoenix's MECA instrument, found that the top layer of soil at the site is moderately alkaline, with a pH of 8 to 9, and contains a number of salts. Scientists said the soil resembles that found in dry valleys in Antarctica, and could even possibly support the growth of some kinds of vegetables. Initial data from another instrument on Phoenix has also confirmed to scientists that the soil has interacted with water in the past.
The first chemical analysis of the soil at the landing site for NASA's Phoenix Mars Lander has revealed conditions not dissimilar to those of part of Antarctica, scientists said this week. The analysis, performed by Phoenix's MECA instrument, found that the top layer of soil at the site is moderately alkaline, with a pH of 8 to 9, and contains a number of salts. Scientists said the soil resembles that found in dry valleys in Antarctica, and could even possibly support the growth of some kinds of vegetables. Initial data from another instrument on Phoenix has also confirmed to scientists that the soil has interacted with water in the past.
Related Links:
| <<previous article | next article>> |
|
news in brief
|
|
|
|
news links
|
|
Saturday, September 12
ISRO’s ‘privatisation’ move: What India’s space policy says
Indian Express — 2:50 am ET (0650 GMT) After €387 million raise, The Exploration Company wins ESA’s “ALADDIN” cargo capsule contract worth €760 million
EU-Startups — 2:48 am ET (0648 GMT) French ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet: Europe must 'maximise scientific return' from ISS before closure
EuroNews — 2:47 am ET (0647 GMT) Finland Urges Musk To Allow Starlink Use Against Russia
Aviation Week — 2:45 am ET (0645 GMT) Florida makes case to host new US Space Academy
WESH-TV Orlando — 2:43 am ET (0643 GMT) |
