Could Cosmic Rays Support Underground Life on Mars?

Speedy Summary

• A study by NYU Abu Dhabi reveals that cosmic rays might support life underground on celestial bodies in our solar system.
• Cosmic rays striking water or ice can produce electrons through radiolysis, which some bacteria use for energy.
• Researchers used computer simulations to explore this process on Mars and icy moons like enceladus (Saturn) and Europa (Jupiter).
• The study found Enceladus holds the highest potential for supporting life via radiolysis, followed by Mars and Europa.
• A new concept called the Radiolytic Habitable Zone broadens the scope of where life could exist, focusing on subsurface environments rather than traditional “Goldilocks Zones” involving surface liquid water.
• The findings suggest future space missions should investigate underground habitats exposed to cosmic rays for potential signs of life.

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indian Opinion Analysis
This study shifts paradigms in astrobiology, emphasizing subsurface environments as viable habitats for microscopic life fueled by chemical processes like radiolysis.For India’s space program-already advancing through missions such as chandrayaan and upcoming explorations-the research opens possibilities for investigating moons like Europa or Enceladus in collaboration with global partners.By adopting tools to detect cosmic radiation-induced chemical activity underground,Indian scientists could contribute meaningfully to humanity’s growing interest in extraterrestrial ecosystems while leveraging existing expertise in planetary exploration technologies.

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