
"Are there such things as starless "rogue" planets? If so, are they of any interest to astrobiology?"
-
Abiogenic Explanation for Methane on Mars
Researchers from NAI’s Indiana Princeton Tennessee Astrobiology Initiative Team published their theory on the origin of the detected atmospheric methane on Mars in the current issue of Astrobiology. Measurements of deep fracture water samples from South Africa led to a model which distinguishes between abiogenic and microbial methane sources based upon their isotopic composition, and couples microbial methane production to molecular hydrogen generation by water radiolysis. The authors also propose an instrument for future missions to Mars which, with measurements over time, could distinguish mechanisms for methane emissions.
Source: [Link]
- Professor at University of Puerto Rico at Arecibo makes impact on the Study of Planetary Habitability
- Daniel Glavin Wins 2010 Nier Prize
- Vatican Hosts Study Week on Astrobiology
- Taking a Bite of Antarctic Ice
- Dr. Linda Billings Recieves Lifetime Achievement Award
- Discoveries in the Deep
- Ethics of Space Exploration
- Eigenbrode Earns Chief Technologist’s Top Prize
- Success in Monterey Bay Canyon
- Can Darwin Help Us Find Life Elsewhere?


