'Living organisms might wait for us to discover them': Mars may host an environment similar to hydrothermal vents on Earth, where life first arose

Scientists have discovered evidence suggesting that Mars may be experiencing volcanic activity, which could potentially increase the chances of finding life on the planet. The researchers linked the presence of gases commonly produced by magma to photographs of fresh fissures on the Red Planet's surface. This finding could be seen as positive news in the search for life, as a continuous heat source would be necessary to keep microorganisms protected from the freezing temperatures on Mars' surface.

While scientists have previously observed evidence of volcanic activity on Mars over the last few million years, no direct proof of lava flows or eruptions had been found until now. In order to investigate further, the study's authors examined limited data - just 15 recorded instances of hydrogen chloride gas - alongside recent photographs of the Martian surface.

By analyzing the wind patterns at the time of the measurements, the team was able to link the recent, narrow fissures in the Alba Mons region to the hydrogen chloride emissions, providing strong evidence of an underground lava flow. Although the source of the gas could still be doubted until the area is investigated up-close, researchers argue that this finding makes the case for further surface exploration of Mars.

The discovery suggests that if a constant and continuous thermal source existed on Mars, it would improve the prospects for life on the planet, even though the surface temperatures can drop to -70°C to -80°C at night.