Ladakh’s magnetofossils may help identify habitable environments in space

Researchers from Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow (BSIP), an autonomous institute of Department of science and Technology (DST), noticed similarities between the rock varnish observed in Ladakh and that seen on Mars, particularly during the Perseverance rover operations.

Samples of rock varnish from the Ladakh region showed higher concentrations of oxidised manganese (Mn4+) and carboxylic acid functionality on the varnish surface were identified, indicating organic signatures.

The study published in Planetary and Space Science showed that rock varnish from Ladakh contains enriched concentrations of magnetic minerals likely derived from biotic sources. The findings highlighted the potential of rock varnish as an archive of ancient environmental records and as a geomaterial for astrobiological studies.

By identifying biotic signatures in rock varnish, scientists can better target potential biosignatures on Mars and other planetary bodies, aiding the search for extraterrestrial life.

These studies would play a pivotal role in planning future space missions by ISRO and other space agencies, including Mars exploration, where identifying habitable environments is a primary goal.

Ladakh, also known as the cold desert of India, experiences extreme climate such as high UV radiation, significant temperature variations and limited water availability, making it a suitable terrestrial analogue for Martian studies.

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