Mars spacecraft spots possible gas signal near Alba Mons, hinting at magma below
ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter detected a possible hydrogen chloride signal; researchers say it needs confirmation but may point to conditions like those where life arose on Earth
Europe's ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter has detected a possible signal of hydrogen chloride gas seeping from rifts in the Alba Mons region of Mars, which scientists interpret as emissions from hot magma below the surface, according to a study published Wednesday in Science Advances. The team suggests Alba Mons may host an environment similar to hydrothermal vents on Earth, where life likely arose and continues to thrive, though more research is needed to confirm the emissions.