Scientists identify potential habitats for life beneath Martian ice

A new study from Caltech identifies potential habitable zones beneath Martian ice where photosynthetic microbes could survive. Researchers calculated that microbes might thrive at depths of 5 to 38 centimeters in dusty ice, or up to 3.1 meters in cleaner ice. These zones are primarily located in Mars' mid-latitudes, where conditions allow for subsurface melting. Dust particles in the ice could create pockets of meltwater, similar to processes observed on Earth, potentially supporting microbial life. While no direct evidence of life has been found, these findings guide future missions to explore Martian ice. Upcoming missions, including the European Space Agency's ExoMars rover, may target these promising areas for signs of life.